I think I have an infection after changing my new piercing.Updated a year ago

This can happen when changing into earrings that are not hypoallergenic. Do you know what kind of earrings you are using? Do they contain nickel? We always recommend wearing hypoallergenic earrings to help prevent infection!

It takes up to a year for a piercing to fully heal. In that timeframe, you may have some normal drainage (usually clear, sometimes bloody), itchiness, or tenderness in the area.  All of these are normal findings and are not indicative of an infection.  Occasional redness or a small amount of swelling may be noted as well.  However, signs and symptoms of an infection include yellow-green or foul-smelling drainage, a large amount of redness and swelling that does not go away on its own, and in extreme cases, fever (temperature of 100.4 F or higher).  If you have any of these symptoms, please seek medical care with your primary care provider for further evaluation and treatment.

The best way to prevent an infection is to follow the cleaning regimen with your aftercare solution and only wear jewelry that is 100% hypoallergenic and nickel-free.  Always wash your hands before cleaning the piercing.  Make sure that you continue cleaning your new piercing two to three times daily by soaking the end of a q-tip with your aftercare solution, and cleaning in a circular motion around the front and back of your piercing.

If you need further assistance, follow us on Instagram @heyrowan and DM our Nurse Helpline. We’ll respond within 24 hours!