The industrial piercing involves two separate perforations connected by a single straight barbell across the upper ear cartilage. Because this piercing creates two separate wounds in a slow-healing area, it is naturally prone to irritation and can occasionally bleed. Understanding the reasons behind the bleeding can help determine the necessary course of action.
Common Reasons for Bleeding
The most frequent cause of bleeding is mechanical trauma, which involves any physical force applied to the piercing site. This often happens when hair gets snagged on the jewelry, or when the ear is accidentally bumped while dressing or talking on the phone. Sleeping directly on the piercing causes pressure and friction, which can easily irritate the delicate healing tissue and lead to bleeding.
Bleeding can also result from issues with the jewelry itself. If the barbell is too short for the initial swelling, the pressure can cause tissue erosion and bleeding. Subtle movements of the jewelry, like twisting or excessive cleaning, can disrupt the fragile blood clots forming within the fistula, the tunnel of healing skin. A minor amount of fresh or dried blood is not uncommon during the normal healing process, especially since cartilage piercings take a long time to fully recover.
The material or fit of the jewelry can also contribute to irritation and bleeding. Low-quality metal, such as those containing nickel, can provoke a localized allergic reaction, leading to inflammation that makes the site more susceptible to bleeding. When a healed piercing suddenly starts bleeding, it often signals that the healing process has been set back due to a snag or continuous irritation. Certain medications, like ibuprofen, can thin the blood and may cause increased or prolonged bleeding when taken near the time of the trauma.
Immediate Steps to Control Bleeding
The first step when an industrial piercing begins to bleed is to remain calm. Thoroughly wash your hands with antibacterial soap and warm water before touching the ear to prevent introducing bacteria to the open wound. Next, apply gentle, sustained pressure directly to the bleeding site using sterile, non-woven gauze or a clean paper towel.
Hold the pressure for five to ten minutes without lifting the material to check the progress, as interruption can restart the bleeding. The direct pressure encourages the blood to clot and seal the small damaged vessel. Once the bleeding has stopped, clean the area gently using a sterile saline wound wash.
Cleaning involves spraying the saline solution onto the piercing to flush away blood and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or irritating ointments, as these can damage new cells and prolong the healing time. After cleaning, avoid moving the jewelry and try to identify the source of the irritation, such as sleeping on that side or a snagging piece of clothing.
Identifying Serious Complications
While minor bleeding is common, specific signs indicate a more serious problem requiring medical attention. Persistent bleeding that continues profusely after applying ten to fifteen minutes of firm, constant pressure should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Excessive bleeding that does not stop is not a normal part of the healing process.
Other indications of a serious issue suggest an infection has developed, manifesting as changes beyond typical localized irritation. These signs include: excessive redness that spreads beyond the piercing site, severe throbbing pain that intensifies, and thick, discolored discharge that is yellow or green. Severe swelling that causes the jewelry to press tightly into the tissue or appear to embed itself warrants immediate attention from a piercer or doctor. If you develop a fever or notice red streaks radiating away from the piercing, seek prompt medical care, as these are signs of a spreading infection.