5 Septum Piercing Dangers You Should Know

The septum piercing craze looks like it’s going to continue strong in 2016, but make sure you know what you’re getting into if you’re considering one. To be fully prepared to rock the piercing, read up on these septum piercing dangers so you know when to get help if you need it during the recovery process. While it’s rare you’ll have any major complications, it’s still wise to know what to look for in case you start showing signs of a problem.

Given how many celebs have chosen to try the septum piercing trend lately, I can totally understand the desire to get one. I mean, can we stop and appreciate Zoe Kravitz, Jessica Biel, and Rihanna's septum piercings? Swoon.

While I love how septum piercings look, I personally don’t trust my super sensitive skin enough to get one. Even with a simple ear cartilage piercing, I ended up with an infection that caused my ear to swell to almost double its size within a few days despite my best efforts to keep it healthy. That’s just not a risk I’m willing to take with my nose!

If you’re definitely committed to getting the piercing, scan the dangers below to be prepared as possible. And remember, always reach out to your piercer and doctor if you have questions or encounter any issues during the healing process!

1. Diseases From Unsterilized Needles

Blood-borne diseases like hepatitis and HIV can be passed through unsterilized needles. If you’re getting a septum piercing, absolutely make sure you go to a professional piercer that uses only sterile single-use needles.

2. General Infections

Something as simple as touching your piercing with an unwashed hand can cause an infection. According to HealCure, symptoms of a septum piercing infection are as follows:

“Redness around your jewelry that does not disappear after a 2-3 weeks in case of a new piercing, discharge from the piercing, especially yellowing or green pus like discharge, soreness and tenderness especially if you tried to touch the pierced site, bleeding in extreme cases after a few days for a new piercing or on an old piercing, Bump on the piercing site, Swollen and painful septum, and crusting.”

Consult your doctor ASAP if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, as you may need antibiotics.

3. Alcohol-Induced Inflammation

Though not likely to result in a serious problem, Skin-Artists shared that alcohol (both from drinking and washing with facial products containing any) can cause inflammation and uncomfortable swelling. Unless your piercer or doctor specifically advises you to use a facial cleanser with alcohol, it’s best to avoid them during the healing process. And sadly, you should hold off on that second glass of wine, too.

4. Fluid Or Blood Build Up

If your septum was pierced incorrectly, blood capillaries may have been broken and can cause uncomfortable fluid and blood build up. If you notice an excessive amount of pressure in or around your septum, contact your doc.

5. Septal Hematoma

While rare, septal hematoma is the most serious potential danger of a septum piercing, which can cause difficulty breathing and even potential facial deformity. If you notice congestion but don’t have a cold, see dramatic swelling, or feel like there is an unexpected amount of uncomfortable pressure in your septum, definitely don’t hold off on seeking professional help.

Remember, the list above is meant to help prepare (not scare!) you. Good luck with your piercing and make sure to also read everything you need to know about septum piercings before you commit to one.

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Images: Terry Presley; Terry Presley; Czarina Alegre; Peter Rosbjerg; Jodie C