Piercings: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency help for trouble breathing, rapidly increasing tongue or throat swelling, fainting that does not improve, uncontrolled bleeding, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as widespread hives with facial swelling.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Arrange prompt medical assessment for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, or redness; thick yellow or green drainage; fever; red streaks; or jewellery becoming embedded.

   Ear cartilage that becomes very painful, swollen, or misshapen also needs prompt attention.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Ask for routine advice if irritation is not settling, the jewellery is moving toward the surface, or you are unsure whether healing is progressing normally.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Piercings. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.