Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. Significant infections of the cartilage can require hospitalization. With any piercing, there is the danger of infection, including hepatitis B or C virus and tetanus.8 Body piercing as a possible vector for human immunodeficiency virus transmission has been suggested.39 Nonsterile piercing techniques and poor hygiene contribute significantly to the increased risk of infection. Conservative treatment of minor local infections includes warm compress and over-the-counter or prescription topical antibiotics such as bacitracin or mupirocin. When it glides easily, remove the excess ointment as it dries out and causes crusties. Also, infection rates are low involving piercings of the lips and tongue despite a large number of bacteria present in the oral cavity. This means it can cause further complications and become difficult to treat. Overall, bacteria have become increasingly resistant to many types of antibiotics. (ie, Phisoderm, Bactine, or liquid antibacterial soaps such as Dial, Lever 2000, or Softsoap) and avoid perfumed products. Of course, if you accidentally irritate your new piercing youll probably experience some pain. Soak the infected eyebrow piercing in the warm saline solution. Neglecting to clean your new piercings daily. [4] For these reasons, it is necessary to identify and treat the localized infections to prevent severeand life-threatening complications. Anyone who suspects a piercing infection should discuss it with a doctor. If bacteria gets into a new piercing, it can lead to infection. This is probably a minor infection that you could try treating at home, unless the piercing is through cartilage. Infected piercings - RWT Primary Care Most body piercing jewelry consists of rings, hoops, studs, or barbell-shaped ornaments. Keep the area clean and do not touch it, rub it or move the jewelry. Physicians should remain nonjudgmental so that patients are not reluctant to report a problem. Before visiting the doctor, do not take off the jewelry to avoid the development of an abscess. This activity reviews the evaluation and treatment of body piercing infections and explains the role of the interprofessional team in managing patients with this condition. Luckily, infected ear piercings arent the norm and, if you get pierced at a reputable place and practice solid piercing after-care, youre probably going to be just fine. Did they follow proper aftercare instructions? 1 After cleaning, gently pat the area dry and pat a small amount of the ointment over the infected area. However, there may be scarring, which can range from mild to severe. Mupirocin is effective and offers excellent coverage against gram-positive cocci. Importance should be placed on infection prevention and the need for utilization of a trusted and certified piercing parlor as these locations have requirements for proper hygiene and sterilization techniques. Edema frequently develops after tongue piercing, so a longer barbell is recommended initially.16. Infected Lip Piercing: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, and More A simple warm water compress can be made by soaking a clean washcloth in hot water, applying it to the piercing, and holding it there with gentle pressure for a few minutes. Its just not getting any better, the girl complained to us. Infections can occur near the piercing site, but it can also affect the whole body, so medical attention is critical. If an infected piercing isnt treated, it can lead to issues at the site like abscesses , scarring, or deformities. Complications of Body Piercing | AAFP