Ear Infections: Managing Pus Bumps After Piercing

Ear abscess?

Hello doctor, I got my ears pierced in mid-January this year, and since then, the left ear piercing has been repeatedly inflamed.
A few days ago, I noticed a pus-filled bump behind my left earlobe, very close to the piercing.
That night, I applied some Neomycin ointment and went to sleep.
By the next afternoon, I felt an itch in my ear, and when I touched it, I realized the pus had burst.
I quickly wiped it with tissue, but the pure silver earring I had in got pulled out and disappeared.
Until last night, I was disinfecting the area with iodine and applying Neomycin before bed.
Today, I thought the wound had healed significantly since the scab had fallen off and new skin was forming, so I asked a friend to help me reinsert the earring.
However, no matter how we tried, we couldn't get it through.
Later, he noticed that the original hole seemed to have healed, but the hole we were trying to use didn't look like the original one.
It seemed like the hole above the wound was the actual original hole because there were also small holes nearby that looked similar to the piercing.
So, he managed to push the earring through the hole above the wound, and it went through smoothly.
However, now there is a dull pain.
In summary, I am unsure which one is the true piercing.
If I continue to use the hole above the wound, will it worsen the situation? If it is indeed not the original hole, can I just let it heal and become a new piercing?

Jingjing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/19

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

It is advisable to visit an otolaryngology clinic for an ear piercing infection.
Wishing you a smooth recovery.

Reply Date: 2018/09/19

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a complex situation with your ear piercing that has led to inflammation and the formation of a pus bump. This is not uncommon, especially in the initial healing stages of a new piercing. Let's break down your concerns and provide some guidance on how to manage this situation.

Understanding Ear Infections and Pus Bumps
When you pierce your ear, the body responds to the trauma by initiating an inflammatory response. This can sometimes lead to complications such as infections, especially if the piercing is not properly cared for. The presence of a pus bump indicates that there may be an infection or an accumulation of fluid, which is a common response to irritation or infection in the area.

Symptoms and Signs
1. Pus Bump: The bump you noticed behind your earlobe is likely a sign of infection or irritation. If it ruptured and released pus, this could be a sign that your body is trying to expel the infection.

2. Pain and Itching: The itching and pain you are experiencing are typical symptoms of inflammation. The area may be sensitive due to the healing process or due to the infection itself.

3. Difficulty with the Earring: If you are having trouble inserting the earring into the original hole, it could be due to the healing process. Sometimes, the skin can heal over the piercing, creating a new pathway or closing the original hole.

Management and Care
1. Cleaning: It’s good that you are using antiseptic solutions like hydrogen peroxide and antibiotic ointments. However, be cautious with over-cleaning, as it can irritate the skin further. A saline solution (saltwater) is often recommended for cleaning piercings.

2. Avoiding Irritation: Try to avoid touching or manipulating the area excessively. This includes not changing the earring too frequently, as this can introduce bacteria and worsen the infection.

3. Consulting a Professional: Given the complexity of your situation, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can assess the infection, determine if the original hole has closed, and provide appropriate treatment.

4. Deciding on the Piercing: If the original hole has closed and you have successfully created a new hole, it may be possible to keep the new piercing. However, it’s essential to ensure that the area is free of infection before proceeding with any new jewelry.
5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in symptoms. If you notice increased redness, swelling, or pain, or if you develop a fever, seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
In summary, your situation involves a potential infection and complications from the healing process of your ear piercing. It’s crucial to maintain proper hygiene, avoid unnecessary manipulation of the area, and consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on the specific condition of your ear. Remember, while it’s tempting to manage this at home, professional guidance is invaluable in preventing further complications and ensuring proper healing.

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