Should You Remove a Piercing with a Cartilage Bump?
Most individuals who get body piercings, such as a tragus piercing, are usually happy with the outcome. However, once in a while, you might notice a tiny little bump forming. This can be a cause for concern, making you wonder if you should remove the piercing. This article will explore what you should do if you notice a bump on your tragus piercing and provide some useful tips to treat it without having to remove the jewelry.
Why You Should Disregard Urging to Remove the Jewelry
While the sight of a bump on your piercing might be unpleasant, you should not remove your jewelry until your symptoms subside. If you take out the jewelry while symptoms persist, it might result in a painful abscess. Abscesses can form when the body's immune system tries to fight off an infection but instead causes inflammation and pus to build up, leading to severe pain and swelling.
Understanding Cartilage Bumps
It's important to know that there are different reasons why a cartilage piercing might develop a bump. In many cases, the bump could be due to an irritation bump or a localized infection. An irritation bump is a benign growth that can occur due to friction, improper cleaning, or even jewelry that irritates the piercing site. A localized infection, on the other hand, is more serious and should be treated promptly.
What to Do if It's Just an Irritation Bump
If you believe the bump is an irritation bump, the first step is to leave the jewelry in place. This is because removing the jewelry can sometimes exacerbate the situation, especially if the bump is due to irritation. Here are some at-home treatment methods you can try:
tHot Salt Water Soaks: Soaking the piercing in warm, saltwater can help relieve any irritation and promote healing. Mix one tablespoon of salt in a cup of warm water, then submerge the piercing for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat this process several times a day. tHerbal Compresses: You can use very diluted tea tree oil or witch hazel compresses. Both of these natural substances have antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help fight off potential infections. Apply a compress to the area a few times a day for effective treatment.Treating a Localized Infection
For a localized infection, the bump might have pus inside it, indicating an active infection. You should also leave the jewelry in place, but take additional steps to manage the infection:
tWarm Compresses: Apply warm compresses to the affected area to help draw out any pus and reduce inflammation. Do this several times a day for quick relief. tCleanliness: Continue to maintain excellent hygiene around the piercing. Use a gentle cleanser, such as a salt-based solution, to keep the area clean and free of unwanted bacteria. tMedical Consultation: If the bump continues to grow or if you experience severe pain and swelling, it may be best to consult a piercing professional or a medical professional for further evaluation and treatment.Conclusion
It's possible that the bump on your tragus piercing might be a keloid, which is an overgrowth of skin caused by excessive healing. However, without a definitive diagnosis, the best course of action is to leave the jewelry in place unless you are experiencing severe symptoms.
The key takeaway is that you don't necessarily have to remove your jewelry to treat your cartilage bump. By practicing proper hygiene and following the steps outlined above, you can help the bump heal and minimize the risk of complications.
If you are unsure about the nature of your bump or if you experience any worsening symptoms, it's always best to seek professional advice to ensure the health and well-being of your piercing.