What is normal
Clear or pale discharge: lymph fluid. Healthy and expected for months.
Crusty buildup: dried lymph around jewellery. Saline dissolves it gently.
Intermittent swelling: flare-ups happen, especially if bumped or slept on.
Mild itching: tissue regeneration. Do not scratch or insert anything into the ear.
Warning signs
Green or foul-smelling discharge: possible infection. See a doctor.
Pain that increases after week 2: pain should gradually decrease.
Redness spreading beyond the piercing: possible infection spreading.
Persistent large bump: if it does not respond to 4 weeks of improved care, visit your piercer.
Earbuds during healing
In-ear earbuds: avoid completely for 3-6 months. They press against or near the daith piercing, introducing bacteria and causing physical irritation. This is one of the biggest daith-specific challenges.
Over-ear headphones: generally fine throughout healing because they sit over the ear without touching the inner fold.
Once healed: most people can resume using earbuds. You may need to adjust the angle slightly to accommodate the jewellery. Smaller jewellery (6-7mm hoops) interferes less than larger pieces.