It’s fairly easy to identify an infected ear piercing. Symptoms may include: yellow, pus-like discharge swelling redness ongoing pain or tenderness itching and burning Usually, a minor infection of an ear piercing can be treated successfully at home. But if any of the following symptoms occur, seek medical attention. Follow these steps to take care of a minor piercing infection: Wash your hands before touching or cleaning your piercing. Clean around the piercing with a saltwater rinse three time