Septum and Piercing Care: Cold, Flu, and Allergy Edition

As a piercing enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by body piercings, especially those on the nose. One of the more challenging aspects of maintaining a nose piercing is when you're dealing with a cold, the flu, or seasonal allergies. These conditions can cause inflammation, dryness, and irritation that can interfere with the healing process of your piercing. So, today, let’s talk about how to care for your nose piercing during these tricky seasons.

Drink Plenty of Water

Whether you have a cold, flu, or allergies, hydration is key. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your nasal passages moist, which reduces the chances of irritation. Dryness can lead to crusting around your piercing, and this can make healing much slower.

Clean with Saline Solution

Using a saline solution is one of the best ways to clean your piercing without causing irritation. You can either buy pre-made saline solution or make your own at home with salt and warm water. Saline helps to keep the piercing area clean and helps reduce the buildup of mucus or other debris that may collect around the piercing during a cold or allergy flare-up.

Keep Hands Off Your Piercing

When you’re sick, your hands are more likely to carry bacteria, and touching your nose piercing can introduce harmful germs. Always make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercing, but it’s best to avoid unnecessary contact as much as possible during illness.

Use a Humidifier for Comfort

During flu season, the air can get dry, which can make your piercing area feel dry and irritated. Using a humidifier in your room can add moisture to the air and help keep your nasal passages hydrated. This can also soothe any inflammation that might occur due to nasal congestion.

Take Care of Your Allergies

If you're someone who deals with seasonal allergies, managing your symptoms is crucial. Allergies can cause you to rub your nose frequently or blow your nose, both of which can irritate the piercing. Using antihistamines or nasal sprays as directed by your doctor can help reduce the need to touch or blow your nose, minimizing irritation to the piercing.

Stick to Your Aftercare Routine

Even if you’re dealing with a cold, flu, or allergies, it’s essential not to skip your regular aftercare routine. Continue cleaning your piercing with saline solution, and don’t remove the jewelry unless advised by a professional piercer or healthcare provider. Removing the jewelry too early can cause the hole to close up and lead to complications.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your piercing stays clean and well-maintained, even during the cold, flu, or allergy season. Remember to always consult with a professional piercer or healthcare provider if you notice unusual irritation or signs of infection.

Stay healthy and take care of your piercing!