What should I do to treat the infection and should I remove or keep the earring?

Question

I had my earlobes pierced two months ago, there are signs of infection in one ear (redness of the lobe, slight inflammation near the piercing) when I remove the earring there is a little bleeding and a little yellowish stink.

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Good morning, ma'am, The piercing will have to be removed to give the skin a chance to heal. I would recommend putting it back in only when the area has returned to its normal appearance. You will also have to make sure to clean the earring well and leave it in boiling water for 5 minutes. The worst that can happen is that the piercing will have to be redone. However, if you don't remove it, the situation may persist and possibly deteriorate. For ear care, basic hygiene with water and mild soap twice a day should be sufficient. Do not apply peroxide, alcohol or other products as they dry the skin and slow down the healing process. If the situation does not improve after 7 days, you should consult a doctor. I hope this has been helpful to you and if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me! Tom Samaha, pharmacist