A tongue piercing is a common form of body modification, and it is normal for the tongue to swell afterward. This swelling is a natural response to the piercing, and understanding the healing stages can help you manage the process comfortably.
The Normal Healing Process and Timeline
When you get a tongue piercing, the body’s inflammatory response to the puncture wound causes swelling. This is a standard part of the healing process for any piercing involving mucous membranes, and the tongue often swells significantly.
The most substantial swelling occurs within the first 48 to 72 hours. During this period, you might find it difficult to speak or eat and may notice increased saliva production. Professional piercers account for this by using an initial barbell that is longer than necessary to provide space for the tongue to expand. After the first few days, the swelling will decrease, with continued improvement over the next one to two weeks, while full healing can take a few months.
Home Care for Reducing Swelling
You can take several steps at home to manage swelling. Consuming cold items is effective; gently sucking on ice chips or drinking ice water can help reduce inflammation and keep you hydrated. It is important to be gentle to avoid irritating the fresh piercing.
Elevating your head with an extra pillow while you sleep can also help minimize swelling by preventing fluid from pooling in the area overnight. Sticking to a soft, bland diet is recommended to avoid irritating the piercing. Good choices require minimal chewing and are less likely to get caught on the jewelry.
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Applesauce
- Lukewarm soups
To support healing, avoid substances that can increase swelling, such as hot and spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Smoking is also discouraged as it can interfere with healing. Good oral hygiene is important, so use an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse your mouth after eating to keep the area clean.
Signs of Complications
While some swelling, soreness, and clear or whitish fluid (lymph) are normal, other symptoms may indicate a problem. If swelling worsens after the first three to four days or doesn’t show improvement after a week, it is a cause for concern. Severe or throbbing pain that doesn’t subside should also be monitored.
A primary indicator of infection is the presence of thick, yellow, or green pus. Other systemic signs of infection include developing a fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell. Look for red streaks that radiate from the piercing site, as this can be a sign of a spreading infection.
Another issue to watch for is jewelry embedding, where the ball of the barbell starts to sink into the tongue tissue, suggesting the initial jewelry is too short. If you notice any of these signs, contact your piercer for jewelry-related concerns or a healthcare provider for symptoms of infection.