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If you've recently had your cartilage pierced and notice a swollen bump forming in the area, it's natural to feel concerned. But don't panic—these are likely granulomas, which are quite common. Granulomas usually resolve on their own, though there are steps you can take to speed up the healing process. To help you with this, we've answered some frequently asked questions on how to heal the swelling caused by a cartilage piercing.
Steps
How can you treat a granuloma at home?
Apply a warm compress to the swollen area once a day. Granulomas can develop when fluid accumulates under the skin. You can take a cotton ball, gauze, or clean fabric, soak it in warm water, and place it on the swelling. Hold it there for a few minutes to soothe the area and allow the trapped fluid to drain out.
Try switching to different jewelry. Some jewelry made from alloys containing nickel may cause allergic reactions known as contact dermatitis, which can resemble swelling from ear piercings. You could try switching to jewelry made from other materials to see if that helps.
- Some jewelry might even contain nickel without you realizing it!
- If you're allergic to metals, you may experience itching and redness around the piercing site.
How long will the swelling from ear piercings take to heal?
Most cases resolve on their own within a few months. There's no need to see a doctor or seek medical attention for swelling at the piercing site. Simply continue maintaining hygiene and following the care instructions from the piercer, and eventually, the swelling will subside!
- Most people find that the swelling goes away without leaving any trace. Some individuals might take a few months, while others might take up to two years, but it will generally resolve eventually.
- Keloid scars are a type of scar tissue that can form after piercings. However, unlike granulomas, keloids don't fade on their own; medical treatments or surgery may be necessary for removal.
When should you see a doctor for a swollen piercing?
See a doctor if the granuloma shows signs of infection. If the piercing becomes severely swollen or painful, or if there is blood or pus leaking from the piercing, it may be infected. Infections can lead to serious complications, so it's important to seek medical attention promptly.
- A doctor might prescribe oral antibiotics and topical antibiotic creams to treat the infection.
Seek medical attention for severe cases to prevent complications. If you notice multiple swellings across a large cartilage area, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will examine you to rule out any underlying conditions and may prescribe medications such as antibiotics, antimalarials, or other drugs to prevent severe immune reactions.
- Studies suggest that antimalarial drugs may be effective for some individuals with granulomas.
Can you pop the swelling yourself?
Though you may be tempted to pop the swelling, it's not a good idea. Doing so might lead to significant bleeding and possible infection. Granulomas may have many blood vessels around them, so if you try to break it open, it could bleed and take longer to heal. Additionally, bacteria could enter the wound, causing an infection. Moreover, this could leave a scar. It's best to allow the swelling to heal naturally or consult a doctor.
- Professional piercers strongly advise that the fastest way for a piercing to heal and the swelling to subside is to avoid touching it as much as possible, except during cleaning.
How can you prevent swelling at the piercing site?
Choose properly fitting jewelry. Loose or improperly sized jewelry can shift within the piercing, irritating the cartilage and causing swelling. You should wear jewelry that fits snugly in the piercing so that it doesn’t move around, preventing damage to the surrounding cartilage.
- If you're unsure which type of jewelry to choose, ask a professional piercer. They'll be happy to help you pick the best jewelry for your cartilage piercing.
- Additionally, avoid wearing earrings with butterfly clasps, as they can lead to swelling.
Avoid bumping or snagging your jewelry on other objects. When jewelry gets caught or bumped, it can shift and potentially lead to the formation of granulomas. Be mindful and protect your piercing. No matter how tempting, try not to play with or touch the jewelry to reduce the risk of swelling.
- When possible, tie your long hair back (especially while sleeping) to prevent it from getting caught on your jewelry in the piercing.
Tips
- If your piercing is fresh, remember to clean it gently with soap and water at least twice a day to prevent infection.
