Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Pierced Ear Infection
How do I know if the ear is infected?
If your child's pierced ear gets infected, it may swell, and
be red and sore. You may also see yellow pus or fluid.
How can I take care of my child?
Take out the earring three times a day. Clean the earring
and both sides of the earlobe with rubbing alcohol. Put an
antibiotic ointment on the post and put it in again. Keep
putting on the ointment for 2 days after the infection seems
cleared up.
How can I help prevent infections right after the ears are
pierced?
When ears are first pierced:
- Have the ears pierced by an expert. The person should
clean and sterilize all the tools.
- Use 14-carat gold or stainless steel posts.
- Put the earring clasp on loosely. This allows for any
swelling.
- Clean and wash the holes two times a day. Do this for 6
weeks.
- First wash your hands.
- Turn the post three times while you clean around the
hole.
- Then clean both sides of the holes with rubbing
alcohol.
- Don't take the posts out for 6 weeks unless it gets
infected.
Some children should not have their ears pierced. DO NOT
pierce the ears if your child bleeds easily, gets thick
scars (keloids), or gets skin infections easily.
How can I help prevent later infections?
- Make sure your child washes his or her hands before
touching the earrings.
- Touch only the earring when you put it in or take it out.
- Clean the earring with alcohol before you or your child
puts it in.
- Put on the clasps very loosely. This stops the clasps
from pushing on the earlobes. It also gives an air space
on both sides of each earlobe.
- Take off the earrings at bedtime. This airs out the holes
at night
Call your child's doctor right away if:
- The earring clasp gets stuck in the opening and can't be
taken out.
Call your child's doctor during office hours if:
- It gets red or swells outside of the pierced area.
- Your child gets a fever.
- The ears are not getting better after 48 hours of care.
- You have other concerns or questions.
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