Tips on Treating an Earlobe Infection
The earlobe has long been used for the purpose of adornment and decoration, but when an earlobe infection sets in, it is anything but attractive.
Ears are external organs made of cartilage and skin. Since ancient times, the ears have been targeted as an area to be used for decoration; specifically, the earlobes. Native tribes have been piercing and adorning the earlobes with numerous articles such as sticks or bits of metal; often using these features as symbols of importance or status. In today’s world, it is largely simply a cosmetic means of adorning the face; since the earlobe has no biological purpose, it may as well be used for decoration.
Problems with the earlobes.
The majority of problems that occur to the earlobes are caused from ear piercing. It could be that the ear piercing was not done correctly or with the proper equipment, or because the individual did not take the proper care of their earlobes after the piercing. People who take matters into their own hands by piercing their ears with a so-called “sterilized” needle in their homes are likely not as sanitary as they believe themselves to be. Even those individuals who receive proper ear piercing with clean equipment can face problems if they do not follow the cleaning instructions that should be performed for up to six weeks. Bacteria that naturally live upon the body can find its way into the skin through the new opening, causing earlobe infection; also known as perichondritis.
Infection will begin as redness around the pierced opening. The area may itch, be warm to the touch and appear swollen. If not cared for, the infection can worsen; the redness and swelling can spread and pus may form within the piercing. In addition, the individual may develop a fever as the body’s immune system responds to the invasion of the bacterium.
Although piercings are the most common causes for perichondritis, insect bites can also be the cause. Often, biting insects insert a chemical into the skin to keep blood flowing freely; this chemical is often the source of an allergic reaction which causes itching. Scratching the site of the bite can break the skin, opening the door for bacterium to enter and develop into infection.
Less frequently, earlobes can become infected from boils, which are infected hair follicles that become filled with pus. A hardened and painful lump forms in the earlobe, accompanied by a slight fever of the surrounding skin. These will heal and disappear on their own; it is important not to attempt to squeeze or lance the boil, as it could worsen and spread the infection.
Treatment of infected earlobes.
Keeping the area clean is vital in treating an infection. Using an antibacterial soap, warm water and a clean washcloth, swab the area several times each day. If the ears are pierced, discontinue wearing any earrings until the infection is completely gone. It is important to sterilize any earrings worn while the infection was forming; they can be soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean them. If the infection does not respond to the cleaning regime, it is time to make an appointment to see your doctor, who will likely prescribe an antibiotic ointment.
Preventing infection.
Infection can be prevented for pierced ears by having the procedure done by a qualified operator. Cleaning the piercing with hydrogen peroxide for the first two days, then with soap and water for the next few weeks, will keep the area bacteria free. Wearing earrings made of pure metals such as gold or silver will also be beneficial.
Earlobes are a common area for adornment, but infection will make them appear anything but attractive. Preventative measures can keep infections from occurring and, when infections do occur, quick action will restore the earlobes to their decorative state.