Ear Piercing Issues in Children: Causes & Relief

Question
My 8-year-old daughter has had her ears pierced for about 7 years now.  She has rarely had any problems with her ears, and we've been using dangly, loose fitting earrings in her ears (not 14k gold).  She does not sleep with the earrings in.  Yesterday, she started complaining of the holes in her ears hurting.  They appeared red but had no discharge.  When I feel the pierced portion, it feels like a small lump inside, and she says it hurts when I touch it (both ears).  I "assume" she has a slight infection, but I'm not quite certain the best course of action.  I have removed the earrings, cleaned the holes with peroxide and applied Polysporin.  What else should I do?  Put the earrings back in so the holes don't grow closed?  How many days should I expect this to last before seeking out her regular physician?

Answer
You are doing about all you can for now. If it does not clear in a few days I would call her doctor to see if she will need oral antibiotics. You may also want to find a set of  stainless steel posts to use til these heal but only use every other day to keep the holes open. Also get her used to cleaning the posts of her earrings with isopropyl alcohol before and after each use. Make sure she does not shower or wash her hair with the earrings in since the soap can break down even good quality metals to start a metal sensitivity. OK?