The APP says salt water soaks or go to the doctor for antibiotics, but to leave the piercing IN.

www.safepiercing.org/trouble...ing.html
• Treatment:
* Increased mild sea salt soaks (for minor infections)
* Oral/topical antibiotics, as prescribed by a physician
* Removal of jewelry in the presence of an infection may result in an abscess. In the event there is a localized, draining infection, quality jewelry should be left in place to allow for passage of matter to the surface

Iodine. As long as it isn't staph, providone iodine will kill it, but you only need one or two applications worked into the piercing. If it is staph, it will get worse after applying iodine and at that point you should RUN to your doctor's. You don't have to take out your jewelry, but if you see a Dr. they may make you.

Also, it is quite common to experience a lot of rollercoaster ups and downs during the healing process. I got very happy when my nose began to look/feel healed... and then one morning I woke up and saw it was sore, swollen & regressing. So out comes the sea salt soaks once again, and strict Provon cleanings. Be patient, and keep cleaning during the *entire* healing phase, even if the piercing seems healed... and try not to touch 'ut :)

From the awesome Steelnavel.com:

Salt Water Soaks

Mild sea salt water soaks are strongly suggested at least once a day to accelerate healing and increase your comfort. This may also help to reduce irritation in the area. Dissolve a pinch (1/4 teaspoon) of sea salt into one cup (8 oz.) of warm or hot water in a clean cup. Distilled water is optimal. A stronger solution is not better as you can burn your piercing with too much salt. Invert it over the area to form a vacuum and soak directly for a few minutes. For certain placements it is easier to use a clean cotton ball or gauze pad soaked in the salt water and applied to the pierced area. Follow with a clear water rinse or splash then pat dry with paper products.

Salt water soaks help to stimulate air and blood circulation which facilitates healing. You can do a brief salt water soak before your daily cleaning(s) as well as several additional times a day. It is particularly advisable to soak before you do anything active, as it will prevent crust from being pulled inside the piercing as you move around. Salt water is the only additional product (other than the cleanser and water) we suggest you use to care for your piercing.

One soak per day should be for at least a few minutes. Additional soaks can be brief (1 minute or so) and still be effective for soothing the area and removing matter.

(See www.steelnavel.com/body-pie...rcare.asp for full care guide.)