Treatment of pierced ear infections
Remember to wash your hands before cleaning your child's piercing.
Treatment of a pierced ear infection will depend on the extent of the infection and whether the piercing involved the earlobe or the ear cartilage.
Mild infections of the earlobe can be treated with daily cleansing and a topical antibiotic ointment. With proper care and hygiene, a pierced ear infection will disappear in one to two weeks. More severe infections of the earlobe or any infection involving ear cartilage need to be assessed by a health-care provider and usually require oral antibiotics. In some cases, intravenous antibiotics or drainage of the infection may be necessary.
When to remove the earrings
Earrings should be removed from your child's ears if the infection persists or spreads despite regular cleaning. If the infection involves the cartilage of the ear, remove the earrings and seek medical attention for a proper evaluation. Finally, earrings should be removed if your child develops an
allergy or sensitivity reaction to the metal or other compounds in the earring.