I just got my cartilage pierced 4 days ago (with a needle, not a gun). I've been cleaning it as instructed. Right now, it's red, swollen, and painful. I assume this is normal since it's only been four days. But these are also signs of infection...I was just wondering at what point I should start to worry.

Thanks!

Dana2007

Have you contacted the business that did the piercing?

Did they give you any written instructions and warnings?

nauticalstar420

I'm not suprised that it is still red, swollen and tender. Cartilage piercings are one of the hardest piercings to heal, and they are also the slowest to heal as well. With most other piercings, you start feeling better the next day after getting pierced, or the day after that. Cartilage piercings can remain this way for up to 2 weeks before you start feeling better.

Signs of infection include severe redness, severe swelling, and a yellow or green discharge that smells bad. An advanced infection can also include fever and/or chills. What I mean by severe redness is, it would be so red that its actually almost purplish in color. Severe swelling can look like your ear is actually swelling around the jewelry, almost looking like its going to swallow it. If you have any of those symptoms, infection is possible and you should see a doctor.

Remember that a piercing is a wound to your body, and any wound is going to cause some form of swelling and discomfort. If it is taken care of properly, these things that you are experiencing will go away as fast as your body allows them to.

Good luck!

aes416

I was given a set of written instructions. I have not yet contacted the place again.

Thanks for clarifying more symptoms of infection! Hopefully it'll feel better in a week or so.

nauticalstar420

Good luck and I hope it feels better. Remember to go to the doc if you develop symptoms of infection.