Infected Ear Piercing: How To Tell, Causes, Treatment, Prevention - Women's Health
In a perfect world, you get an ear piercing and walk out feeling amazing in new earrings. However, if you've had the (dis)pleasure of getting an infected ear piercing, you know what a bummer it can be. You suddenly notice a skin bump that looks the opposite of cute, and something tells you it's getting infected. "By definition, an infection is an unwanted bacteria, fungus, or virus on the skin. This generally requires some type of intervention to heal, stop spreading, and prevent further occurrences," says Mona A. Gohara, MD, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine and Women's Health advisory board member. Infected piercings can occur due to sanitary reasons (think: the place you went wasn't clean) or, you might just be unlucky. If you notice itchy skin, burning, throbbing, or even a skin rash, keep an eye on your symptoms in case medical treatment is needed. Ahead, doctors share everything you need to know about infected ea