Today many people are getting attracted towards having tattoos done. However, be careful before getting a tattoo done as there is a possibility that you may develop a serious and severe tattoo infection. Tattoo infections mainly take place when a needle is not properly sterilized. This can happen at any time even though you have had many successful tattoos. Records show that most tattoo infections are caused because of unlicensed practitioners.

– The signs and symptoms of the tattoo infection:

Do not take a tattoo infection lightly as it can lead to a very serious condition. Below are the most common signs and symptoms of tattoo infections. If you notice them at the very first stage then you can prevent them from becoming more serious and deeper infections.

• Severe redness and irritation:

It is understood that you are going to get some redness and some irritation when a tattoo is done. However, this redness and irritation should be reduced after a few hours or even a few days. If you find this redness increasing, however, then you might be at risk of a tattoo infection.

• Lots of pain:

It would be same for the pain. The pain needs to reduce after few hours or even a few days and if you find it increasing then again there is a possibility of tattoo infection.

• Fever:

You will easily and surely come to know that your tattoo is infected, if you have even a slightly increased temperature. If you notice fever after getting the tattoo done, then you are at high risk of tattoo infection.

• Swelling:

It is obvious that there is going to be a little swelling after getting a tattoo; here again, if it does not reduce and rather increases, then you might have a tattoo infection.

• Unusual odor and discharge:

If you notice any unusual odor from the tattoo or find any kind of discharge from the tattoo that could be a bad sign and you may have a tattoo infection.

If you discover any of the above mentioned signs and symptoms after getting your tattoo, do not ignore them, but consult with your health care provider as soon as possible. Remember, untreated tattoo infections can be life-threatening.

– Treatment for tattoo infection:

• Be sure of infection:

After getting a tattoo; if the above signs and symptoms are persisting and getting worse then you may be getting affected by tattoo infections. You can get confirmation that there is an infection from the tattoo practitioner; or you can also consult with a dermatologist.

• Antibiotic treatment:

After confirming an infection; it can be resolved with antibiotics. You can use over the counter ointments or your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic cream for you. Make sure that you keep your tattoo dry during the treatment.

• Removing tattoo:

If your symptoms are not reduced even after using antibiotics then you may have an allergy to the dye used in the tattoo ink. At this time, removal of the tattoo is the only option left to you. There is laser technology available with which tattoos can be removed more safely and reliably and also it is not too expensive.

There is nothing wrong or rude if you ask for the tattoo practitioner’s license before getting a tattoo; after all it is a question of your health and your safety.