Redness and tightness

I got my tattoo about a week ago today. It's a tattoo of a hibiscus flower put on my right ankle...well, it's been really sore since I got it to the point where I have collapsed to the floor. The pain has subsided a little bit but is still pretty sore. My ankle cramps up if I sit for a long time and then get up to walk. It's really red around the outside of the tattoo ..it almost feels as if my skin is being pulled into the middle of my tattoo. I'm guessing that that feeling is coming from the scab that has formed over the top of it. Will this feeling go away or could I possibly have an infection? This is my first tattoo from this artist but have seen his work. He is an amazing artist..my tattoo is so nice I'm just scared that there is something wrong with it. He did a full sleeve on my friend and a bird on his shoulder..soooo nice! I have another tattoo and don't remember it ever getting this red or sore. But then again the other one is on lower back. The scab is already falling off..no, I haven't been picking at it either..I want it to heal properly...what I can see though from the tattoo underneath is pretty good. The color looks a little faded though. Could that be caused from the swelling? I've been trying to get in to see my tattoo artist to ask him about it but everytime I go to the shop he's busy and I can't exactly go in the back room and talk to him. I've left messages but hes a really busy guy with family and other jobs as well. Should I just go to a doctor and ask them? I have a really weak imune system as well..im always sick because I don't eat enough red meat or veggies and I always seem to forget to take my vitamins in the morning ;) haha. If anybody has an suggestions please email me back.

Doesnt sound like its infected, although if you are unsure you should see a doc. It sounds like you just are having a rough heal. For what reason, I can't guess. There are a lot of factors.. Just let the scabs fall off on their own, don't use ointment to overcompensate. The tattoo looks lighter because a new layer of skin has formed over the tattoo and under the scab. That should flake off as well in a few weeks and you should be as good as new. I have had a couple rough heals like that.