PIERCINGS

SYMPTOMS

Below are the possible risks of improper placement of earrings:

• Allergic reactions. Jewellery used in piercing placement can cause allergic reactions. Examples are allergies from nickel piercings.
• Oral complications.Tongue piercings can damage the gums and can cause cracked or chipped Difficulty in chewing and swallowing, and sometimes breathing, may be experienced when tongue swelling occurs.
• Skin infections.  After piercings, there may be pain,redness, swelling or a pus-like discharge, indicating an infection.
• Other skin problems. Scars or raised skin areas (keloids) may appear after piercings
• Bloodborne diseases.Blood borne diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tetanus and HIV may be acquired if the equipment used is contaminated
• Tearing or trauma.  Stitches or other repairs may be needed when jewelry is torn out or if it gets

Other treatments or medications are necessary if allergic reactions, infections or other skin problems near the piercing occur.

Swollen, red and tender skin around the pierced area may be present for a few days, and is normal. But if will last longer than a few days, immediately consult your doctor for early treatment.

TREATMENT

Take good care of your piercings to prevent infection.

Below are the proper care procedure for your piercings:

• Clean oral piercings with mouthwash. An alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash can be used after every meal and before bedtime if you have tongue, lip or cheek piercings. A new soft-bristled toothbrush is needed to avoid bacteria build-up. If the area has completely healed, take the piercing out when eating and when doing physical activities. Also, you may brush piercings at night to remove plaque.
• Clean skin piercings. Clean the pierced area with soap and clean water twice a day. Ensure that your hands are clean before cleaning the pierced site.
• Avoid swimming.Avoid soaking in pools, hot tubs, rivers, lakes and other bodies of water while your piercing is not completely healed.
• Don’t fiddle with your piercings. Keep away from things that could mess with your piercing like your clothing. Don’t excessively touch or twist jewelry to avoid skin irritations and delayed
• Keep the jewelry in place. To keep the hole from closing,don’t remove Wait for about six weeks up to several months until piercing is completely healed.