Piercing has become part and parcel of today’s fashion and both men and women of any age are fond of piercing. More number of people is getting involved in piercing for adding attraction. It is quite common for modern youth to pierce in many parts of the body like ear, nose, lips, tongue and genitals. Some women are fond of piercing their breast. Piercing can be defined as tearing of the uppermost layer of the skin (of any part) for making a hole. Piercers would use sterilized instruments like pierce gun or needles for making such hole in the skin to accommodate jewelry.
What Are The Risks Involved In Piercing?
Number of factors can lead to bacterial infection at the site of piercing.
- Non-Sterilized Instruments :
Using the same needle for many people and using non-sterilized instruments can cause infection. Piercing is similar to receiving injection. A nurse/doctor uses only disposable sterilized syringe to give you a shot of injection. Likewise the professional piercer should use only sterilized instruments for piercing. He/she should not use the same needle for many persons. This can cause transmission of infected blood from one individual to the other. Transmission of virus/microorganisms can occur and you are at the risk of developing Hepatitis B or C and HIV.
- Dirty Environment :
The place of piercing should be kept clean. Items like tables, desks and all other equipments should be cleaned properly or disinfected regularly. This can prevent infection to large extent. The piercer should wash his hands thoroughly wish soap water before and after the act of piercing. If he/she touches you with dirty hands you are more likely to get infected.
- Cleaning The Site With Alcohol :
Before piercing is done, the piercer would clean the area with disinfectant solution. Any part like ear, nose, navel etc can be cleaned thoroughly before piercing. For oral piercing like tongue, lips etc you will be asked to rinse with antiseptic mouthwash. This can prevent future infection.
- Professional Piercers :
Always opt for professional piercers in your area. In many states it is mandatory to possess a valid license for piercing. You can find the list of professional piercers in your city by contacting the State County or health department. Never indulge in self piercing or getting it done by your friend. This can cause various complications.
- Specific Risks :
Any type of piercing that can interrupt or block the normal functions of the body can cause serious risk and potential complications. Tongue piercing can interfere in the way you speak and the jewelry on the tongue can cause discomfort in swallowing and drinking. This can wear away the tooth enamel. In case of infection in severe cases the infection can be passed on to the internal organs through airways or food pipe.