Increased redness that spreads beyond the piercing site
Swelling that gets worse instead of better
Warmth around the piercing
Pain or tenderness that is increasing
Yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge
Thick pus coming from the hole
Crusting that is excessive or keeps returning
The area feels hot to the touch
Bleeding that continues or starts after healing
The earring feels stuck because of swelling
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes near the ear, jaw, or neck
Red streaks extending from the piercing
The piercing hole looks larger, torn, or severely irritated
Symptoms that worsen after a few days instead of improving