EAR, PIERCED

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR PIERCED EAR

  1. Localized Redness Or Discharge At Earring Site:
    • Remove the earring from the ear three times a day. Clean the earring and post with rubbing alcohol.
    • Wash away any crusting or discharge from the earlobe using soap and water.
    • Gently clean the holes on both sides of the earlobe with rubbing alcohol and some gauze.
    • Apply Bacitracin ointment to the earring post and to the earlobe holes and reinsert the earring. Bacitracin is an antibiotic ointment that can be obtained over the counter.
  2. Newly-Pierced Ears:
    • Don't remove the earring.
    • Use a cotton swab ("Q-Tip") dipped in alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean the earring post and skin three times a day.
    • Rotate (turn) the earring several times each day to prevent the skin from sticking to the post.
  3. Self Care For Small Tear:
    • For bleeding, use gauze or a towel to apply direct pressure to the area for 10 minutes.
    • Remove the earring and keep it out for 3-5 days.
    • Wash the area with soap and water.
  4. Preventing Infections in Newly Pierced Ears:
    • Have your earlobes pierced by someone who is experienced and uses sterile technique.
    • The initial posts should be 14-karat gold or stainless steel.
    • Do not remove the posts for 6 weeks.
    • Attach the earring clasp loosely to allow for swelling.
    • After washing the hands and cleaning both sides of the earlobes with rubbing alcohol, turn the posts approximately 3 rotations. Do this twice a day.
    • By the end of 6 weeks, the lining of the channels should be healed and earrings may be charged as often as desired
  5. Preventing an Allergic Reaction To Nickel: Some people have a skin allergy to nickel. Wear earrings with posts made out of 14 K gold or surgical steel.
  6. Call Your Doctor If:
    • You are not improving after 3 days
    • You become worse or develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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