Risks of Ear Piercings<\/h2>\n
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The outer ear is made up of the pinna and ear canal. The pinna has both cartilage and cartilage-free areas, and both areas can be pierced. The lobe is a cartilage-free area and is common for piercings because it heals faster and has a lower risk of infection. There are some risks associated with piercing any area of the ear.<\/p>\n
Risks of Piercings:<\/p>\n
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- Pain, swelling, itchiness, bleeding and inflammation<\/li>\n
- Cartilage piercings can heal poorly, resulting in keloid scarring<\/li>\n
- Allergic reaction<\/li>\n
- Auricular perichondritis, or an infection of the cartilage or tissue, can occur<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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If an infection forms at the site of the piercing, that\u2019s when impacts to hearing are most likely. Fluid from the infection site can block the ear canal, impacting hearing. There is also the potential for an earring to obstruct the ear canal, which could make it harder to hear.<\/p>\n
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Long-term effects<\/h2>\n
About 28.8 million U.S. adults<\/a> could benefit from the use of hearing aids.<\/a> If you have larger or several piercings and experience hearing loss later in life, it may affect your ability to be properly fitted with hearing aids. Earrings or other jewelry can affect the placement of hearing aids. Hearing aids that don\u2019t fit properly can cause feedback or a whistling sound, which impacts hearing and causes stress and frustration.<\/p>\n
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Safety Precautions<\/h2>\n
Ear piercings are at a low risk for impacting your hearing. There are steps you can take after piercings to prevent side effects.<\/p>\n
Steps to take:<\/p>\n
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- Use antibacterial soap to clean the outer ear.<\/li>\n
- Use a saline solution or spray and wash your hands before touching the ear or piercing site.<\/li>\n
- Seek medical advice if the piercing shows signs of infection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
It\u2019s possible to get piercings and keep your hearing safe by consulting the appropriate professionals and maintaining proper aftercare. If you have questions about the impacts of piercings, contact Wilmington Audiology Services<\/span>.<\/p>\n