Hi I got my cartlidge peircing done in September on my left ear and it still hurts really bad. It doesn't hurt for a couple days then it hurts again. I think its infected. I think its infected because there is a bump on the back of my ear and it hurts to touch it sometimes. Should I leave it in or take it out? Should I clean it more then once a month or just take it out? Can you please answer my questions so I know what to do? Hope they are helpful! Thanks!

Piercings should be cleaned daily. Not cleaning it daily is why you have an infection. Leave the piercing in( taking out an infected piercing can trap the infection inside and not allow it to drain), clean it daily with a salt solution, and talk to your doctor about antibiotics.

Thank you very much lyra!

No problem! And even though its been over 6 weeks, don't try to change it if it's infected. Once the infection has cleared up and the piercing site is healed change it if you want to.

Note: ALWAYS wash hands before you touch your piercing. And while the piercing is healing from the infection, use some warm water or warm salt solution on a paper towel or cotton ball and hold it to the site for several minutes twice a day.

Thank you so much! I need it to go away fast! It hurts on and off!

I had an infected industrial bar once, hurt like a bugger. I know the feeling. But yeah do that. Also, talk to your doctor and ask if it is best or neccasary to have the pocket of fluid drained. I drained mine myself and I do NOT recommend doing that.

I tried doing that once and it hurt so much! So I wouldn't ever do that again! Thanks for your helpful advice!

No problem!