What should I do about my infected pierced ear?

Answer by  Anonymous

It's possible you are allergic to the earring. Many contain nickel, which many people are allergic to. Try nickel-free jewelry. If this is the problem, the swelling should go down fairly quickly. Be sure to clean it well and often.

Answer by  camfishy8 (55)

You should see your family doctor or a doctor at an urgent care clinic so he can tell you if the infection can be treated with topical ointments or if you will need an oral antibiotic.

Answer by  PaintedRoadkill (504)

The first thing you need to think about is if you want the earring still. You could be allergic to the metal made from the earring. If you want to keep it still then you could use rubbing alcohol around the area to remove germs and sterilize. Whatever you do don't use Neosporin or peroxide.

Answer by  JLOTT4 (25)

Warm sea salt soaks will help with swelling and pain from piercings. You can either lay your whole ear in a bowl of a sea salt solution or use a dampened towel for 15 minutes at a time. The solution should be as warm as is comfortable and repeated as often as you feel is necessary.

Answer by  Shelley59 (68)

Act immediately!! Take your earring out and treat with Hydrogen Peroxide for several days. Allow the hole to close up and do not attempt to put your earring back in. After the hole you may feel a knot in your lobe for a little while. You may try to have it pierced a second time after it is healed.

Answer by  Taran (716)

Infection will usually occur during the healing phase of the piercing, not necessarily as a result of the piercing process itself. Any type of surgical procedure, whether it is a tongue piercing or a kidney transplant, carries a risk of infection even if sterile technique is followed carefully. Good hand-washing is essential for the prevention of infection.