Getting an ear piercing, whether in the earlobe or in the ear cartilage, does hurt--but the immediate pain usually subsides pretty quickly, especially if you're getting an earlobe piercing. If your piercing keeps hurting, however, it can be a sign of a more serious problem, like an infection. Taking precautions, such as choosing a professional piercing establishment and following aftercare instructions, can make your ear piercing as painless as possible.
Earlobe Piercing
Earlobe piercing is the most common type of ear piercing. Earlobe piercing is done with a piercing gun or a needle. The gun "shoots" a stud through the earlobe, while a piercing needle punches a hole through the skin, after which a stud or ring is inserted. Whatever method you choose, during the piercing you will feel a sharp pain. As the earlobe is basically a piece of fatty tissue, it has a good blood supply and heals quickly, meaning that you shouldn't experience much pain or soreness after the piercing is actually done.
Cartilage Piercing
Like earlobe piercing, cartilage piercing (at the side or top of the ear) is performed with a piercing gun or needle. You will experience the same sharp pain as during earlobe piercing (some people say that they experience more pain during cartilage piercing). The main difference, pain-wise, between cartilage and earlobe piercing is that cartilage has less blood supply and therefore takes longer to heal. Therefore, you're likely to experience a bit more lasting pain after getting your ear cartilage pierced.
Infection
One very common reason for pain after ear piercing is infection. Along with pain, you'll probably notice redness and swelling. There may be a pus discharge. The Journal of the American Medical Association notes that, as the ear cartilage receives less blood flow than the earlobe, it's more likely to become infected.
Other Side Effects/Warnings
Some people may be allergic to certain metals in ear studs or earrings, causing a painful reaction. Nickel is particularly likely to cause an allergic reaction. Ear piercings can also be torn out of the body by accident, which is obviously painful and may also require surgery to repair. Certain people may also have too high a risk of infection to safely get an ear piercing, such as pregnant women or people with autoimmune disorders or conditions like diabetes.
Precautions
To prevent infection or other painful mishaps, take some precautions before and after getting an ear piercing. Before you get an ear piercing, check out your options. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery reminds prospective piercees to check that piercers are licensed, wearing gloves and using sterilized tools. You may want to spend the extra money on going to a professional piercing establishment, especially if you're having a cartilage piercing, as piercing needles are easier to fully sterilize than piercing guns (which can't be put in a sterilizing autoclave). After the piercing is done, follow the piercer's aftercare instructions carefully.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Piercings: How to Prevent Complications
- American Society for Dermatologic Surgery: Do's and Don'ts When Considering Tattoos or Piercings
- Journal of the American Medical Association Patient Page: Body Piercing
- Association of Professional Piercers: FAQ
- Association of Professional Piercers: Health Considerations
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