7 Signs Your Piercing Isn't Closing Properly

If you got that new piercing just in time for summer, it's important to take proper care of it and know the signs in case your piercing isn't healing properly. Since many of us tend to show off some more skin during the summer months, you'll want to be particularly careful about infections, which means you should also know what signs to look for in case your piercing isn't healing properly.

For starters, always leave piercing to the professionals. No matter how fearless you may be when it comes to blood, or how many times you've seen 13 Going On 30, this is never something you should do at home.

WebMD reports that redness and even light bleeding can persist for some time after the initial piercing. It also may be normal to see a clear layer of crust or slight discoloration around the area for a day or two following the appointment. However, there are a few signs that may suggest things aren't healing normally.

Learn more: 11 Cartilage Piercing Truths To Know Before You Go Under The Needle

The website Safe Piercing points out that after care is just as important as how the skin is treated during the piercing. Essentially, a piercing is a wound, The Huffington Post points out, and should be treated as such. If you see any of the following signs, it might be time to head to the doctor. While some irritation and swelling immediately after the appointment may be normal, there are a few things that shouldn't persist.

1. Long-Term Swelling

According to Heal Cure, swelling that lasts for more than 48 hours after your appointment may be a sign of infection. While some swelling is normal, it should being going down, not be getting worse by the day.

2. Puss

While some clear crusting may be normal, Body Jewellery Shop reports that green or yellow puss may be a sign of infection.

3. Skin Feels Hot

This is another symptom that may be normal immediately following the appointment, but should not continue as the piercing begins to heal. WebMD points out that this could also point to an allergic reaction, which can sometimes be caused by the type of metal on your new post, especially if its made of nickel.

4. Nausea/Fever/Chills

Believe it or not, according to Body Jewellery Shop these flu-like symptoms can also be signs of an infection. If you notice these symptoms combined with any other signs, it might be time to see a doctor.

5. Pain

Need I say more? If pain persists for more than a few days, could be a sign of a bigger problem. "Identifying an infected ear piercing is pretty simple, " according to Healthline, "signs may include yellow, pus like discharge, pain, swelling, ongoing pain or tenderness or itching and burning."

6. Loss Of Function

This one particularly pertains to tongue piercings. Better Health Channel points out that if you are having trouble moving the pierced area or experience severe pain when you do, this could be a sign of infection.

7. Itchiness

Itchiness could be another indictor of an allergy. If you know you have an allergy to nickel or other metals, Jewelry Information Place points may be best to ask for a gold post, which are typically hypoallergenic, before receiving your piercing.

If you see any of these signs or symptoms, you might want to make an appointment with your local doctor. Better safe than sorry!

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