Tattoo Infections: The Risk Of Infection Explained<\/h2>\nTattoos and Pathogens<\/h3>\n
To understand why\u00a0tattoo infections\u00a0occur<\/a>, it is essential to understand the potential sources of infections when it comes to tattooing.<\/p>\n Now, our bodies are protected from various bacteria, viruses, and pathogens in general by our largest organ, which is the skin. During the tattooing process<\/a>, the skin is repeatedly ad intensely pierced to have the ink placed in the dermis of the skin. In the process, the holes created by the tattoo needle create an open wound, which further creates an entranceway for pathogens.<\/p>\n So, when the pathogens enter the skin, they move into the est of the body via the bloodstream or remain located in the freshly tattooed area. As a result, people experience skin and blood infections.<\/p>\n But, why are pathogens even a part of the whole tattooing process? Isn’t everything supposed to be sterile, clean, and safe? Well, in the majority of cases, when we talk about professionals and reputable tattoo salons, the equipment, and the environment is sterile and clean. But, there is always the other side of the coin.<\/p>\n So, why do pathogens, viruses, and bacteria, even have the option to enter our skin and body during tattooing? Well, it can be truly hard to control occurrences like viruses and bacteria. It is essential for tattooists and tattoo salons to keep everything sterile, disinfected, and squeaky clean. But, the sources of viruses and bacteria can be numerous different things. That is why\u00a0virus and bacteria transfer during and after tattooing<\/a>\u00a0is clearly defined and separated, depending on the potential pathogen source;<\/p>\n So, now that we know what the possible source of pathogen transfer is, let’s summarize by taking a look at when exactly these microorganisms transfer from one item to the other;<\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: The contamination can also occur from the tattoo ink. Recent studies have shown that approximately 10% of all\u00a0tattoo inks were already contaminated<\/a>\u00a0with bacteria that are pathogenic to humans. These inks are generally labeled as ‘sterile’ when in fact they are not safe and reliable. There are cases where aggressive strains of Escherichia coli have been found in tattoo inks as well.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n As we mentioned, a range of infections can occur from contaminated surfaces, equipment, and even the client’s own skin. But, what kinds of infections do bacteria and viruses cause as a result of\u00a0tattooing complications<\/a>?<\/p>\n When it comes to bacterial infections, we’re talking about the following bacteria<\/strong>;<\/p>\n On the other hand, when it comes to viral infections, the problem is usually caused by one of the following viruses<\/strong>;<\/p>\n According to the\u00a0CDC<\/a>, tattooing is reported as the source of infections and outbreaks of diseases, most commonly hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and warts. The reason there is such a high prevalence of hepatitis B and C cases in tattooing environments and practices lies in the fact that these viruses require only a small inoculum (pathogen for initial contact) to infect a person.<\/p>\n Fortunately, there hasn’t been a high number of cases of bacterial infections, although the precise data is still lacking. Generally, it is presumed that the immune system can fight off the majority of bacteria and viruses, but people with impaired immune systems and especially vulnerable in case of direct exposure.<\/p>\n When it comes to symptoms of tattoo infections, things are pretty straightforward. The symptoms include;<\/p>\n In the majority of cases, infections remain superficial and only affect the tattooed skin. In serious infection cases, one may require immediate medical attention and even surgical incision to remove the infection and prevent it from spreading. Profound infections may appear in the form of swelling of an entire limb.<\/p>\n There are cases where skin infection, unfortunately, becomes the infection of the blood. Bacteria may pass from the tattoo into the bloodstream and move across the body. As a result, there can occur sepsis, high fever, impairment of vital organs, and even death. All of this can be luckily prevented by proper medical attention and antibiotic treatment.<\/p>\n When it comes to\u00a0mycobacterial infection<\/a>, it is important to be especially cautious and aware of the symptoms and results. This type of infection develops slowly. It is generally sourced from contaminated tap water used to dilute ink for tattooing. Mycobacterial infections are rare and can only be discovered via special diagnostic sampling.<\/p>\n It is important to mention that tattoo infections vary from the tattoo style and tattoo location. If a tattoo is located somewhere with high moisture levels, like the armpit area or the lip, the higher are the chances of prolonged healing issues and possible infection.<\/p>\n In such cases there doesn’t even have to be an initial contact with pathogens during the tattooing; the fact that the moisture is ever-present alone makes it difficult for the tattoo to dry out and heal. And, moisture, especially sweat, is known to attract germs and bacteria, and help them grow and develop.<\/p>\n There are cases where the type of tattoo or even the execution can lead to an infection. For example, stick-and-poke tattoos are known to cause infections due to the more outdated method of tattooing (with only the needle).<\/p>\n Because stick-and-poke tattoos can be DIY-ed, people use improper and dirty tools, like pen ink<\/a> for example. As a result, inflammation and infection occur.<\/p>\n Note:<\/strong> It is also important to mention that laser tattoo removal<\/a> procedures can also lead to infections. The infections often occur as a result of an allergic reaction, or as a result of improper aftercare upon the procedure completion.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n In many cases, the treated area starts to blister heavily, and people avoid cleaning and disinfecting it. As a result, the area becomes inflamed, infected and instead of clean skin, people end up with scars.<\/p>\n It is less common knowledge that\u00a0a tattoo can get infected even after it’s done<\/a>. Microorganisms can find their way into the body through the tattoo so long it is in the healing phase. As you may know, a fresh tattoo is an open wound that takes time (up to 7 days) to completely close and move towards healing (forming of new skin layers and drying out).<\/p>\n That is why it is important to stay away from potentially infected surroundings and situations. For example;<\/p>\n Also Read:\u00a0How To Sleep With A New Tattoo: 8 Tips From Expert<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n In case of mild tattoo infections, like bumps and rashes, they are pretty easy to manage at home. By using some antibacterial ointment, proper cleaning of the tattoo, and proper diet you can ensure that your immune system will fight the infection on its own.<\/p>\n However, if the infection is serious, and it’s causing serious symptoms, like swelling, drainage, fever, and increasing pain, then it is time to visit a doctor. Medical attention in such cases is CRUCIAL. Your doctor needs to establish the cause of the infection and then prescribe proper treatment.<\/p>\n In the majority of cases, the infection can be managed by antibiotics which can be used for a few weeks to a few months; this depends on the severity of the infection, of course.<\/p>\n In case of a bacterial infection, especially\u00a0MRSA<\/a>, antibiotics won’t help. Such bacterial infection usually manifests in form of an abscess. So, the treatment usually involves abscess treatment (drainage), rather than the actual treatment of the infection cause.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, in severe infection cases, there might a need for surgical intervention as well. In such cases, the doctor will cut out the infected flesh and tissue to prevent it from affecting the healthy tissue and spreading across the body.<\/p>\n We know that after all this information, it would be hard to go and get a tattoo without the fear of things going the wrong way. However, even though tattoo infections are a thing, they’re pretty easy to avoid and prevent. Here’s how you as\u00a0a client or as a tattoo artist can prevent a tattoo infection<\/a>;<\/p>\n As a client<\/strong><\/p>\n As a tattoo artist<\/strong><\/p>\n These are just some of the infection prevention measures clients and tattooists should follow. The tattoo artists have strict contamination prevention measures to follow which include detailed instructions regarding cleaning, disinfection, and handling of contaminated or blood-stained equipment.<\/p>\n The risk of a tattoo infection is always present, there is no doubt about that. But, by choosing the right tattoo artist, and by following the protocols as a tattooist, you can prevent the infection from occurring. It is generally safe to get a tattoo, so you should not avoid getting inked because of this risk.<\/p>\n Generally, make sure you eat well, drink plenty of water, and focus on boosting your immune system. This way, even if you do get exposed to germs, bacteria, and viruses, your immune system will be able to fight them off. And, simply think before you ink and get inked; choose wisely and go for proper and reputable professionals.<\/p>\n![\"Tattoos](\"https:\/\/www.saved-tattoo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Tattoos-and-Pathogens-852x1024.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
The Source of Pathogens and Infections<\/h3>\n
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Which Pathogens Cause Infections? \u2013 The Viruses and Bacteria Causing Infections<\/h3>\n
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The Symptoms and Results of Infections<\/h3>\n
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Different Cases of Tattoo Infections<\/h3>\n
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Tattoo Infection During the Healing Process<\/h3>\n
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Tattoo Infection Treatment<\/h3>\n
Tattoo Infection Prevention Measures<\/h3>\n
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Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n