• Problem: Piercing has been contaminated by pathogenic microorganism(s)
• Causes:
Most Common: Piercee has touched piercing with dirty hands or otherwise contaminated piercing (exposure to bodily fluids, dirty water, etc.)
Piercing done with inappropriately sterilized tools, needles, jewelry
Piercing done with unclean, ungloved, and/or contaminated gloved hands
• Indicators:
Piercing exudes thick, green, malodorous pus
Piercing and surrounding area is warm/hot to the touch (more so than other skin)
Piercing site is swollen, red, and painful
• Treatment:
Increased mild sea salt soaks (for minor infections)
Oral/topical antibiotics, as prescribed by a physician
Removal of jewelry in the presence of an infection may result in an abscess. In the event there is a localized, draining infection, quality jewelry should be left in place to allow for passage of matter to the surface
• Complications:
Abscesses are usually site specific. An exception is the chest where the duct system can result in the abscess being formed inches away from the piercing site.
DISCLAIMER
These guidelines are based on a combination of vast professional experience, common sense, research, and extensive clinical practice. This is not to be considered a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. Be aware, however, that many doctors have no specific training or experience regarding piercing and may not be educated on how to best assist you.
Copyright © 2000, by the Association of Professional Piercers, any changes or deletions are strictly prohibited and must be approved in writing by the APP.
Leave A Comment