Getting a septum piercing is a popular trend that many people choose to express their unique style. However, as exciting as it may be, this form of body modification also comes with certain risks such as possible infections. An infected septum piercing can be painful and cause discomfort and sometimes lead to complications. In this article, we will discuss everything related to an infected septum piercing, from its symptoms, causes, prevention, and treatment, to the importance of proper aftercare to avoid future infections.
Symptoms of an Infected Septum Piercing
One of the most significant signs of an infected septum piercing is the increase in the level of pain and discomfort that goes beyond the typical discomfort of the healing process of a new piercing. Other symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness around the piercing site, yellow or green drainage, and sometimes bleeding. In severe cases, the person may experience fever, chills, and other flu-like symptoms.
If you suspect that your septum piercing is infected, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Ignoring the symptoms of an infected piercing can lead to severe complications, such as the spread of the infection to other parts of the body. It is also crucial to follow proper aftercare instructions to prevent infections from occurring in the first place. Always wash your hands before touching your piercing, avoid touching it unnecessarily, and clean it regularly with saline solution or a mild soap.
Causes of Septum Piercing Infection
An infected septum piercing can occur due to various reasons. The most common cause is poor hygiene and lack of cleanliness during the piercing procedure. Also, the use of unsterilized equipment and low-quality jewelry can expose the piercing to harmful bacteria, which can lead to infection. Touching the piercing site with dirty hands and swimming in pools or other bodies of water during the healing process can also increase the risk of infection.
Another cause of septum piercing infection is the use of harsh cleaning products or over-cleaning the piercing. While it’s important to keep the piercing clean, using too much soap or cleaning it too frequently can irritate the skin and disrupt the healing process, making it more susceptible to infection.
In some cases, an allergic reaction to the jewelry can also cause an infection. If you notice redness, swelling, or discharge around the piercing site, it’s important to check if you’re allergic to the metal used in the jewelry. Nickel is a common allergen, and if you’re allergic to it, you should avoid jewelry that contains this metal.
How to Prevent Septum Piercing Infection
The best way to prevent an infected septum piercing is to ensure you go to a licensed piercer who uses proper hygiene and sterilization methods during the piercing procedure. You should also avoid touching the piercing site with unclean hands, avoid swimming or submerging the piercing in water during the healing process, and avoid using low-quality jewelry that can cause irritation or increase the risk of infection. It’s also important to follow proper aftercare procedures to promote healing and prevent infection.
In addition to the above measures, it’s important to keep the area around the piercing clean and dry. You can use a saline solution or a mild soap to clean the piercing site twice a day. Avoid using harsh chemicals or alcohol-based products as they can dry out the skin and delay the healing process.
If you notice any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, discharge, or fever, seek medical attention immediately. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious complications such as abscesses or blood poisoning. It’s also important to avoid changing the jewelry too soon as it can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Wait until the piercing is fully healed before changing the jewelry or removing it altogether.
Cleaning Tips for Infected Septum Piercing
If you suspect that your septum piercing is infected, cleaning it regularly can help alleviate some of the symptoms and prevent the spread of bacteria. Always start by washing your hands with soap and warm water before touching the piercing site. Soak a clean cotton ball or pad in a saline solution and hold it against the piercing for a few minutes. You can also use essential oils like tea tree oil or lavender oil to help reduce inflammation and soothe the piercing site. Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any harsh cleaning agent as it can irritate the skin and make the infection worse.
Over-the-Counter Remedies for Infected Septum Piercing
If the symptoms of your infected septum piercing persist or worsen, you can seek help from over-the-counter medications such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be used to alleviate pain and fever. Topical ointments, like antibiotic creams or hydrocortisone cream, can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. However, it’s best to consult a professional before administering any medication or ointment to the infected piercing site.
Home Remedies for Infected Septum Piercing
Many natural remedies can help soothe an infected septum piercing without the use of medications. A saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. A compress made with chamomile tea and applied to the piercing can also reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. You can also use a mixture of diluted tea tree oil and coconut oil to fight off the bacteria and promote healing. However, be careful not to use any remedies that can irritate the skin or cause further complications.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Infected Septum Piercing
If your infected septum piercing shows no signs of improvement after two weeks of proper care and treatment, seek medical attention immediately. Also, if you experience fever, chills, or any other severe symptoms, seek help from a medical professional.
How Long Does an Infected Septum Piercing Take to Heal?
The healing process of an infected septum piercing depends on various factors, such as the severity of the infection, the length of time before treatment, and proper aftercare. In most cases, an infected septum piercing can take approximately six to eight weeks to heal completely. However, it’s essential to continue proper aftercare even after healing to prevent future infections.
Aftercare Tips for Healing an Infected Septum Piercing
Aftercare is crucial in the healing process of a septum piercing. To promote healing and prevent infections, maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness, avoid touching the piercing site with dirty hands, avoid using makeup and facial products around the piercing, and avoid wearing tight clothing that can irritate the skin. Use saline solution or essential oil mixtures to clean the piercing regularly and always consult a professional if you notice any changes that may indicate infection or other complications.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Infection in a Septum Piercing
One of the common mistakes that can lead to infection in a septum piercing is choosing a piercer who lacks experience or uses unsterilized equipment during the piercing procedure. Another common mistake is touching the piercing site with dirty hands or using skincare products or makeup around the piercing site. Wearing tight clothing or jewelry that irritates the skin can also lead to infection. It’s important to avoid these mistakes to ensure a safe and healthy healing process.
Understanding the Risks of Getting a Septum Piercing
Although septum piercings can be a fun and exciting form of self-expression, it’s important to understand the risks associated with it. Apart from the risk of infection, one can experience scarring, migration, rejection, or keloids. A septum piercing may also take an extended period to heal completely, and it’s essential to follow proper aftercare to avoid long-term complications.
How to Choose the Right Jewelry for Your Septum Piercing
Choosing the right jewelry for a septum piercing is essential in promoting healing and avoiding infection. It’s best to choose jewelry made from high-quality metals like titanium or surgical steel, as they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction or irritation. Avoid jewelry made from low-quality materials or coated with nickel, as they can cause an allergic reaction and lead to infection. It’s essential to choose the right size and style of jewelry that allows for proper circulation and healing.
Can You Still Get Your Nose Pierced If You Have Had an Infected Septum?
Having an infected septum piercing should not hinder you from getting your nose pierced in the future. However, it’s important to ensure proper hygiene and cleanliness during the piercing procedure and to follow proper aftercare to avoid future infections. Consulting a professional piercer may help you find the right jewelry and piercing location based on your previous experience with infections.
The Importance of Proper Aftercare for Your Septum Piercing
The aftercare process for a septum piercing is just as crucial as the piercing procedure itself. Proper aftercare promotes healing, prevents infection, and helps avoid long-term complications. It’s essential to maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness, wear the right jewelry, avoid touching the piercing site with dirty hands, and follow the advice of a professional piercer.
Everything You Need to Know About Treating an Infected Septum
When it comes to treating an infected septum piercing, proper hygiene and cleanliness, and timely treatment are key. An infected septum piercing can be treated with over-the-counter remedies or natural remedies such as a saltwater rinse or tea tree oil. In severe cases or if the infection persists, it’s important to seek medical attention. It’s also crucial to continue proper aftercare after treatment to prevent future infections.
What Happens if You Leave an Infected Septum Untreated?
If left untreated, an infected septum piercing can lead to severe complications, such as the spread of the infection to other parts of the body. In severe cases, it can lead to inflammation, abscess formation, scarring, or tissue necrosis. It’s essential to seek proper treatment and care immediately after noticing any signs of infection or discomfort.
How to Care For Your Jewelry After Your Infected Septum Has Healed
After your infected septum has fully healed, maintaining proper jewelry care can help avoid future infections or complications. Regular cleaning with a saline solution or essential oil mixture can help keep the jewelry clean and avoid the buildup of harmful bacteria. It’s essential to avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents that can irritate the skin or affect the jewelry’s quality. Also, make sure to wear and use jewelry made of high-quality metals or materials to avoid further irritations.
Conclusion
An infected septum piercing can be painful and uncomfortable, but with proper treatment and care, it can be quickly healed. It’s crucial to avoid risk factors such as poor hygiene, low-quality jewelry, and improper aftercare to prevent infections. Understanding the symptoms, causes, prevention, and treatment of an infected septum piercing can help one avoid long-term complications and promote healing.