Tattoo Problems
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Do you think you have an infection after getting a tattoo?
See significance of infection after getting a tattoo if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you have diabetes?
Yes Do you have peripheral arterial disease?
Yes Do you have a disease or take medicine that causes problems with your immune system?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you have increased pain, swelling, redness, heat, or tenderness around the tattoo?
Yes Do you have red streaks extending from the tattoo?
Yes Do you have pus coming from the tattoo?
Yes Do you have swollen or tender glands (lymph nodes) above or below the tattoo?
Yes Do you have a fever or think you have a fever?
You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Have you had increased pain, swelling, and redness less than 1 in. (2.5 cm) around the tattoo for 24 hours or longer?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| 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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