A septum piercing involves the delicate tissue located in the columella, the thin, flexible area just beneath the nasal cartilage. Because this area is subject to constant movement and is near a mucous membrane, healing takes several months, typically requiring four to six months. Understanding the difference between a normal healing reaction and a true infection is the first step in proper aftercare.
Expected Signs During Normal Septum Piercing Healing
The body’s natural response to the trauma of a piercing is localized inflammation. Immediately following the procedure, slight tenderness and swelling in the surrounding tissue are common. This initial swelling should subside significantly within the first few weeks.
Minimal, localized discharge is also expected, often appearing clear or pale yellow-to-off-white. This fluid is lymph and dead blood cells that dry to form “crusties” around the jewelry, representing a healthy part of the healing process. A small amount of localized redness is normal in the early days, but these symptoms are short-lived and should gradually improve.
Definitive Symptoms Indicating Infection
A true septum piercing infection presents with symptoms that are significantly more intense and persistent than normal irritation. A primary sign is severe, throbbing pain that increases over time rather than diminishing.
The appearance and odor of discharge are major indicators of bacterial infection. While normal discharge is pale and minimal, an infection produces thick, dark yellow or green pus, often accompanied by a foul smell. The piercing site will also feel noticeably hot to the touch, indicating increased blood flow. Excessive swelling that extends beyond the immediate site, potentially impacting breathing, is a significant concern. Furthermore, the formation of a large, painful abscess or pustule around the jewelry is a definitive sign of a contained infection.
Immediate Steps for Suspected Infection
If you suspect an infection, increase the frequency of your cleaning regimen using a sterile saline solution. The saline helps to gently flush the piercing channel and surrounding tissue without causing further irritation. Apply the solution or soak the area a minimum of two to three times per day.
Leave the jewelry in place unless a medical professional instructs you to remove it. Removing the jewelry from an infected piercing can cause the hole to close, trapping the bacteria inside and potentially leading to a painful abscess. Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibiotic ointments, as these can damage healing skin cells and prolong recovery. Closely monitor the symptoms over the next 12 to 24 hours to determine if the infection is localized or requires medical intervention.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
Certain symptoms indicate that the infection is no longer localized and that home care is inadequate, requiring immediate medical attention. The most serious warning signs are systemic symptoms, such as developing a fever, chills, or generalized body aches. These symptoms suggest the infection may be spreading beyond the piercing site.
If you notice red streaks radiating outward from the piercing, this can be a sign of lymphangitis, meaning the infection is traveling through the lymphatic system and requires urgent care. Swelling that rapidly worsens or begins to obstruct breathing is also a serious medical situation. In these instances, consult a medical doctor or visit an urgent care facility, not just your piercer, as only a medical professional can properly diagnose the severity and prescribe necessary treatments like oral antibiotics.