Tattoo Problems

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

• Rapid swelling of the tongue or throat causing difficulty swallowing
• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
• Moderate to severe difficulty breathing

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Yes	Do you have any signs of an allergic reaction after getting a new tattoo?
Yes	Do you have swelling at the site of the tattoo?
Yes	Do you think you have an infection after getting a tattoo?
Yes	Do you know or think you need a tetanus shot?
Yes	Have you had symptoms of another illness in the weeks to months since getting a tattoo?
Yes	Do you have a tattoo that is not healing?

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: November 9, 2006
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
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