5 Signs of Tattoo Infectionface
Tattoos are an increasingly common sight. About two-fifths of Americans now have one or more tattoos. The popularity of tattoos may make people feel that tattoos are not so risky, but just a special way to express themselves in life. However, tattooing does in fact carry some risks: Inserting an ink-stained needle into your skin could introduce a foreign object or infection into your body.
Redness and Warmth
“If you feel a pink spread or a pulsating heat radiating sensation around the tattoo, you may be at risk for infection,” Devgan says. Make sure to see your doctor as soon as possible to determine what’s going on, and to use topical or oral antibiotics. Even without an infection, you can have swelling and heat, Tonkovic-Capin said. But if it lasts for more than three days or longer, it’s an infection. At this time, you must see a doctor immediately.
Fever or Chills
The signs of a skin infection can be very similar to those of other common infections. Fever is one of the common symptoms. When you’re battling an illness like an infection, your body temperature rises. As a result, you may feel hot or cold – the body’s way of generating heat by rapidly contracting and relaxing muscles to increase body temperature.
“If you catch a fever, that’s when you need to see a doctor right away,” Tonkovic-Capin said.
Significantly Increased Pain
It is true that there will be pain for a period of time after getting a new tattoo, but it is not unbearable pain. If you experience increased pain in the tattooed area of your body after getting a tattoo, to the point of making yourself uncomfortable, there is a good chance that you have an infection. At this time, you also need to have a doctor to evaluate your situation.
Swelling at the Tattoo Site
This is usually caused by an allergic reaction to the ink. It may also be caused by the unclean water used by the tattoo artist to wash or dilute the ink, and the operation problems of some tattoo needles lead to subsequent redness and swelling of the skin. At this time, I have to mention the CNC tattoo needle, which can reduce the extra vibration that is harmful to the skin when using it.
Viral infection
Although the risk of contracting HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C is small, it is still possible. This can happen if the equipment is contaminated and not sanitized after each appointment. “These are not acute skin signs, but if you do have other signs/symptoms of hepatitis or HIV, see your primary care physician for testing.
In conclusion, minor bumps and rashes can usually be managed at home with antibacterial ointment, proper cleaning and rest. Whenever there is a serious infection, you must consult a doctor in time to maintain your health.