How Can I tell if my ear's infected?

Question

I had my ear pierced below one that has been done for 2 years. My ear is all swollen and red, when I finally got my earring out after crying for about a half hour. I can't get the back on it it's so swollen. Does that mean it's infected? I also can't hear out of that ear since it's been pierced.

How should I get the swelling down?

Should I see a doctor?

Answer 1

if you are having problems hearing then you need to see a doctor asap, it sounds like it is infected

Answer 2

holy s***, you SHOULD be able to hear!! call doctor NOW!!

Answer 3

I hope you are at the Doctors, that is a severe swelling. As soon as you feel the least bit of discomfort or pain you need to treat the infection with alcohol, on both sides of the ear. You may have the answers now..... from the Doctor

Answer 4

Yes, you should see a doctor - mostly because you can't hear out of that ear.  In the meantime, put some neosporin on the piercing.  

Answer 5

yes, those are signs of it...

Answer 6

What?  I can't hear you.  Reason is, many years ago I got my ear pierced, it got infected and stupidly I thought I could take care of it.  I lost all hearing in that ear.  Take a hint.

Answer 7

Did you use that alcohol stuff they tell you to use? If you don't, the hole will get infected and it normally swells up. It happened to me on one of my piercings. Wait a few days and then if it doesn't go away, then go to a doctor. It should be fine though.

Answer 8

get to teh dr asap