Piercings are a popular form of body modification, but they do come with some risks, one of which is infection. A piercing infection occurs when bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms enter the piercing site, causing inflammation, redness, pain, and sometimes discharge. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment of piercing infections, as well as ways to prevent them.
The most common cause of a piercing infection is poor aftercare. When a piercing is done, the skin is punctured, creating a small wound. This wound is then left open until it heals, which can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on the location of the piercing. During this time, it is crucial to keep the piercing clean and free of bacteria, otherwise, an infection can occur.
Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are the most common causes of piercing infections. These bacteria are commonly found on the skin, and they can easily enter the piercing site if proper aftercare is not followed. Fungi, such as Candida, can also cause infections, especially in piercings that are located in moist areas, such as the earlobe or the navel.
Symptoms of Piercing Infections
The symptoms of a piercing infection can vary depending on the cause and the location of the piercing. However, some common symptoms include:
- Redness and swelling around the piercing site
- Pain and tenderness when the area is touched
- Discharge from the piercing site, which can be clear, yellow, or green
- A foul odor coming from the piercing site
- A fever or other signs of a systemic infection
It is important to note that some redness and swelling are normal after a piercing, as it is a sign of healing. However, if these symptoms become severe or are accompanied by other symptoms, it is likely that an infection has occurred.
Treatment of Piercing Infections
Treatment for a piercing infection will depend on the severity of the infection and the cause. In mild cases, the infection can be treated at home by keeping the area clean and dry, and applying warm compresses to the area. Over-the-counter antibiotic ointments such as Neosporin can also be applied to help prevent further infection.
If the symptoms are severe, or if there is a fever or other signs of a systemic infection, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional may prescribe a stronger antibiotic or antifungal medication, and may need to remove the jewelry to prevent further infection.
Prevention of Piercing Infections
The best way to prevent a piercing infection is to follow proper aftercare instructions. This includes:
- Cleaning the piercing site with saline solution or a mild soap and water at least twice a day
- Avoiding touching or twisting the jewelry
- Avoiding submerging the piercing in pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water until the piercing is fully healed
- Avoiding the use of alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh cleaning agents
- Avoiding tight clothing or other items that may rub against the piercing
- Waiting until a wound is fully healed before getting another piercing
Additionally, it is important to make sure that the piercing is done by a professional, and that all equipment used is sterile.
In conclusion, piercing infections are a common complication of body piercings, but they can be prevented by following proper aftercare instructions. If you suspect that you have a piercing infection, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible
A guide to infected piercings + do’s and don’ts
DO’s:
- Keep the piercing clean by cleaning it with saline solution or a mild soap and water at least twice a day
- Avoid touching or twisting the jewelry
- Avoid submerging the piercing in pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water until the piercing is fully healed
- Wait until a wound is fully healed before getting another piercing
- Seek medical attention if you suspect a infection
DON’Ts:
- Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh cleaning agents
- Avoid tight clothing or other items that may rub against the piercing
- Avoid going to non-professional piercers or use of non-sterile equipment
How do I take care of a infected daith piercing?
Daith piercings are a popular form of cartilage piercings, but they can also be prone to infection if proper aftercare is not followed. To take care of an infected daith piercing, it is important to follow these steps:
- Clean the piercing site with saline solution or a mild soap and water at least twice a day.
- Avoid touching or twisting the jewelry.
- Apply a warm compress to the area several times a day to help reduce swelling and pain.
- Avoid submerging the piercing in water, including pools, hot tubs, and showers, until the infection is fully healed.
- Over-the-counter antibiotic ointments such as Neosporin can also be applied to help prevent further infection.
- Consult a professional piercer or a medical professional if you suspect an infection
What piercing gets infected the most?
According to research, navel piercings have the highest rate of infection among all piercings. This is because the navel is a moist area that is prone to harboring bacteria and other microorganisms. Additionally, the navel is often exposed to tight clothing, which can rub against the piercing and cause irritation.
What causes piercing infections?
The most common cause of a piercing infection is poor aftercare. When a piercing is done, the skin is punctured, creating a small wound. This wound is then left open until it heals, which can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on the location of the piercing. During this time, it is crucial to keep the piercing clean and free of bacteria, otherwise, an infection can occur.
Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are the most common causes of piercing infections. These bacteria are commonly found on the skin, and they can easily enter the piercing site if proper aftercare is not followed. Fungi, such as Candida, can also cause infections, especially in piercings that are located in moist areas, such as the earlobe or the navel.
Can a infected piercing kill you?
It is rare, but possible for a severe infection to cause serious harm to health, even death in some cases. However, most infections can be treated with proper care and medication. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect a severe infection, as it can lead to serious complications such as sepsis, a life-threatening condition
