Swelling is a common side effect of piercings. It can occur immediately after the piercing or several days later. In this article, we’ll explore why swelling happens and how to deal with it.

Why Does Swelling Happen?

Swelling is a natural part of the healing process. When you get a piercing, your body sees the jewelry as a foreign object and sends white blood cells to the area to protect it. This causes inflammation, which can lead to swelling.

How to Deal with Swelling

While swelling is a natural part of the healing process, it can be uncomfortable. Here are some tips for dealing with swelling:

Use ice. Apply an ice pack to the piercing site to reduce swelling.

Take anti-inflammatory medication. If the swelling is severe, your doctor may recommend taking anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.

Elevate the piercing. If your piercing is on an area such as your ear or nose, elevate it by propping a pillow underneath your head.

Don’t touch the piercing. Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands to prevent infection and increase swelling.

Follow aftercare instructions. Your piercer will give you aftercare instructions. Follow them carefully to promote healing and prevent infection.

In conclusion, swelling is a natural part of the healing process for piercings. By following the tips above, you can minimize discomfort and promote healing.