What are signs of an infection at a tattoo site?

The presence of redness, swelling, warmth, pus, and increased pain at a tattoo site indicates a probable infection. These signs occur due to the body’s inflammatory response to the introduction of bacteria or other pathogens at the site of the tattoo.

Redness and swelling result from increased blood flow and the accumulation of fluids, while warmth is a sign of increased metabolic activity as the body fights the infection. The presence of pus signifies that the body’s immune system is actively working to contain and eliminate the infection, leading to the accumulation of dead cells, bacteria, and tissues. Increased pain is also common as the body's nerves become more sensitive in response to inflammation.

While dizziness, nausea, fever, and chills can suggest systemic issues or serious infections, they are not directly associated with localized infections at a tattoo site. Redness and swelling alone, without the additional signs, do not sufficiently indicate an infection's severity or presence. Thus, the comprehensive set of symptoms in the correct answer is crucial for identifying an infection effectively.