When you get your ears pierced whether at a tattoo parlour or a kiosk in the mall you should receive instructions on how to prevent an infection. The vendor should also assure you that they only use sterile tools and hygienic practices.

But if protocol isn’t followed, or if you don’t carefully follow the post-piercing care instructions, infection can occur. You can usually treat a minor piercing infection of the earlobe fairly easily and without complications.

HOW TO IDENTIFY AN INFECTED PIERCING

It’s fairly easy to identify an infected ear piercing. Symptoms may include:

• yellow, pus-like discharge
• swelling
• redness
• ongoing pain or tenderness
• itching and burning