Tongue piercings are a popular body modification, but they can lead to complications like infection. Knowing how to respond if an infection is suspected is important for maintaining oral health.
Recognizing Signs of a Tongue Piercing Infection
Distinguishing normal healing from an infection is the first step in proper care. While some initial swelling, minor pain, and a clear or whitish discharge are typical during the first few weeks as the piercing heals, certain indicators point towards an infection. Persistent redness or swelling that extends beyond the immediate piercing site, rather than gradually subsiding, can signal a problem. An unusual discharge, appearing yellow or green with a thick consistency or a foul odor, is a common sign of bacterial presence.
The pain associated with an infection tends to be more severe or throbbing and worsens over time, unlike the decreasing discomfort of normal healing. The area around the piercing may also feel abnormally warm to the touch. A fever, chills, or shaking can develop, indicating a systemic infection. Red streaks radiating away from the piercing site suggest the infection is spreading.
First Steps for At-Home Care
If an infection is suspected, immediate action at home can help manage the situation. Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water before touching the piercing or its surrounding area to prevent introducing more bacteria. A gentle rinse with a saline solution is a primary step. You can prepare this by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt into 8 ounces of warm water, stirring until the salt fully dissolves.
Swish this homemade saline solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds after eating, drinking anything other than water, and before bed, ensuring it reaches the piercing. Alternatively, pre-made sterile saline solutions are available and are effective as they are isotonic, matching the body’s natural salinity levels and minimizing irritation. Gently wiping the area around the jewelry with a clean cloth soaked in saline can help remove any crust or debris. Maintaining good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush can also help keep the mouth clean.
Ensure your jewelry is made from body-safe materials like high-grade titanium or surgical stainless steel, as cheaper metals can cause irritation. If swelling is causing discomfort, sucking on ice chips or drinking cold water can help reduce it. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can also be taken to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Actions to Avoid When Infected
When dealing with a suspected tongue piercing infection, certain actions can worsen the condition and should be avoided. A common mistake is removing the jewelry prematurely; this can cause the piercing hole to close, trapping bacteria and pus inside and potentially spreading the infection. It is also important to refrain from touching the piercing with unwashed hands, as this introduces more bacteria into the wound.
Using harsh chemicals like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine-based solutions on the piercing should be avoided, as these can irritate the tissue, delay healing, and even damage cells. Picking at or squeezing the infected area can further traumatize the tissue and push bacteria deeper into the wound, exacerbating the infection. Additionally, avoid sharing food, drinks, or engaging in kissing or oral sex, as these activities can introduce more bacteria and bodily fluids, complicating the healing process.
When to Seek Professional Medical Attention
While at-home care can address mild infections, specific symptoms indicate the need for professional medical intervention. If redness or swelling around the piercing begins to spread or intensifies, rather than improving, it suggests the infection is progressing. The development of a fever, chills, or body aches signals that the infection may be affecting your whole body.
Pus-like discharge, especially if it is thick, yellow, or green, along with a foul odor, are signs requiring medical treatment. Severe or worsening pain that does not respond to over-the-counter pain relief is another indicator. If you experience difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing due to swelling in the tongue or throat, seek immediate medical attention, as this can be a serious complication. If, after a few days of home care, there is no improvement in symptoms, or if they worsen, consult a doctor or piercer.