If you suspect that you have an infected tattoo, it is important to take care of it at home and seek medical attention if necessary. Here are some steps you can take:
-
Recognize the signs of infection: Symptoms of an infected tattoo include pain, swelling, redness, and heat around the tattoo site, as well as red streaks or pus. You may also experience a fever or swollen lymph nodes.
-
Clean the tattoo: Wash the tattoo with mild soap and water twice a day, and gently pat it dry with a clean towel. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can slow healing.
-
Apply an antibiotic ointment: Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the tattoo to help prevent infection.
-
Monitor the infection: Watch for changes in your symptoms, and seek medical attention if the infection gets worse or does not improve within a few days.
-
Seek medical attention: If you have signs of a severe infection, such as a high fever or pus that wont drain, or if your symptoms do not improve with home care, seek medical attention. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgery to remove the infected tissue.
-
Prevent future infections: To prevent future infections, seek services from a licensed tattoo artist and shop, and ask your artist about their sterilization practices. Wash your tattoo regularly and avoid exposing it to dirty water or other sources of bacteria.
Remember, it is important to take care of an infected tattoo promptly to prevent the infection from spreading or causing long-term damage.