Tattoo Infections
The taboo surrounding tattoos is waning. While only about 21% of people surveyed in 2012 reported having tattoos, the number jumped to 30% by 2019. In the last several years, many respected organizations like Disney, Bank of America, and even the American Red Cross have relaxed standards related to tattooed individuals.
Even so, you may not realize that there are serious risks associated with getting a tattoo. While regret might be the biggest concern, up to 6% of people who receive tattoos end up with complications related to infection. Broken skin increases risks for the entry of bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, potentially leading to serious illness.
In some cases, infection in a tattoo may be due to improper care after the fact. However, it could also qualify as a personal injury if the artist uses contaminated tools or the shop is unhygienic. In some cases, what seems like a mild infection could become much worse if it’s misdiagnosed or improperly treated.
How can you tell if your tattoo is infected, and what should you do if it is?
The Signs of a Tattoo Infection
There are no specific infected tattoo stages, but there are a variety of indicators that can alert you to the presence of infection. Redness and swelling are common with new tattoos, but you may notice that these symptoms persist or spread, potentially indicating infection.
You might also see the formation of bumps on the skin that are filled with pus or start to weep, or there might be nodules (lumps) under the skin. If you experience worsening pain and/or inflammation at the tattoo site, along with fever, sweats, or chills, it’s time to contact a medical professional for diagnosis.
Potential Sources of Tattoo Infections
Any time you break the skin, you open the door to potential infection. This is why tattoo parlors follow strict rules and regulations regarding sanitation and provide you with detailed instructions for tattoo care and proper healing. So, how do infections occur?
Contaminated Tools and Non-Sterile Conditions
A tattoo infection could be the result of missteps by the artist or tattoo shop. One of the most common concerns is using tools that aren’t properly sterilized or failing to fully sterilize the skin’s surface before tattooing. Some artists also use water to dilute tattoo ink and achieve different color gradients. If the water is contaminated, it can lead to infection.
Improper Wound Care
Even if everything is done right when you receive a tattoo, proper aftercare is essential to avoid infection. You must treat your tattoo like any wound and wash, dry, moisturize, and cover the affected area until it heals.
Exposure to sun or water should be avoided, along with activities like sports that could irritate the wound. You should also delay travel to areas where you may be exposed to foreign contaminants or harmful bacteria.
Complications of Misdiagnosis or Improper Treatment
If you notice signs of an infected tattoo, it’s best to see a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, issues like misdiagnosis or negligent treatment could lead to a worsening infection.
Cases of medical malpractice can quickly spiral into life-threatening territory when an infection is present, so make sure to advocate for yourself if you think a mistake has been made.
How To Get Compensation After a Tattoo Infection
If you suffer from an infected tattoo, the burden of proof is on you to hold at-fault parties responsible. Try to document your experience as thoroughly as possible and contact a qualified and experienced personal injury attorney to help you seek compensation for your ordeal.
Contact the Jacksonville Personal Injury Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167