An ear piercing, long since healed, can unexpectedly begin to bleed. This article explores common reasons for this occurrence and outlines steps to address it.
Common Reasons for Bleeding
Mechanical trauma is a frequent cause of bleeding in established ear piercings. Activities such as snagging the jewelry on clothing, pulling it accidentally, sleeping directly on the piercing, or experiencing an accidental bump can irritate the delicate tissue within the piercing channel, leading to bleeding.
Infections, whether bacterial or fungal, can also cause an ear piercing to bleed. An infected piercing might exhibit symptoms such as redness, swelling, increased warmth, pain, and the presence of pus or discolored discharge. This inflammation can make the surrounding tissue fragile and prone to bleeding.
Allergic reactions to certain jewelry materials are another common reason for irritation and bleeding. Nickel is a particularly common allergen, and exposure to it can cause symptoms like itching, redness, a rash, or blistering around the piercing site.
Issues with the jewelry itself can also contribute to bleeding. Ill-fitting jewelry, whether it is too tight, too heavy, or made from low-quality materials, can exert constant pressure or friction on the piercing site. This continuous irritation can lead to chronic inflammation and subsequent bleeding.
Mature scar tissue within the piercing channel can sometimes become irritated. While not always problematic, scar tissue, including hypertrophic scars or keloids, can be more susceptible to bleeding if repeatedly disturbed.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Seek professional medical advice if an ear piercing exhibits persistent or heavy bleeding. Continuous blood loss or any significant amount of bleeding warrants an assessment by a healthcare provider.
Signs of a severe infection also necessitate prompt medical attention. These include:
Fever
Redness that spreads beyond the immediate piercing site
Intense pain
Significant swelling
Large quantity of pus
An earring becoming embedded in the ear
If the cause of the bleeding is unclear, or if the symptoms are worsening despite attempts at home care, professional assessment is recommended. Delaying treatment for a progressing infection or unresolved irritation can lead to more serious complications.
Effective Aftercare and Prevention
To manage a bleeding piercing and prevent future occurrences, gentle cleaning is important. It is advisable to clean the area using a sterile saline solution. After cleaning, gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel.
Careful jewelry selection plays a role in prevention. Opt for high-quality, hypoallergenic materials to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions, such as:
Surgical stainless steel
Titanium
Niobium
Platinum
Gold (14k or higher)
Ensuring the jewelry is of the proper size and not too tight against the earlobe is also important.
Avoiding irritation is another practical measure. This includes being mindful of clothing that might snag the piercing, keeping hair away from the area, and trying to avoid sleeping directly on the piercing. Minimizing unnecessary touching or twisting of the jewelry helps prevent further trauma to the delicate tissue.
Maintaining general piercing hygiene, even for older piercings, is important. Regular, gentle cleaning helps keep the area free from debris and bacteria. Changing pillowcases frequently also contributes to a cleaner environment for the piercing.