_edited.png)
In this post I will walk you through some sure signs that can help you to tell identify an infection at the site of your piercing.
1) Redness: When the skin is first pierced, it is of course absolutely normal for a redness to appear, but if you notice that over time this redness increases along with a tenderness, this could be a sign of infection. In such a case, pay close attention to how the situation develops.
2) Swelling: Swelling can also be a warning sign – whilst it can be common over the first few days after the piercing has been performed, if beyond this period the site of the piercing remains swollen and there is also a soreness felt beyond what you would expect or deem reasonable, infection is a real possibility. In such an eventuality, seek to contact your piercer/body modification professional immediately.
3) Spot fever and secretion of liquids: If any of the above symptoms are present, I also recommend you check if the temperature at the site of the piercing is notably high, as it is common for spot fever to occur along with excessive redness, tenderness and/or swelling. It is also advisable to check whether there is a secretion of any liquid/pus at the site of the piercing – if there is a clear liquid being secreted, this is most likely lymph, a natural part of the healing process; however, if the liquid secreted is of a thick whiteish, greenish or yellowish nature, this might well be a sign of infection.
The above are warning signs you should be on the lookout for and pay careful attention to the development of – if you notice a worsening of any of these symptoms, seek immediate contact with your body piercer/modifier. And to those of you who are reading this before having a piercing performed, heed the following words of advice: seek only qualified professionals, choose pieces of guaranteed quality and adhere to adequate hygiene during the post-piercing phase.
Carla Horrana