How to Manage a Bad Cold While Caring for a New Septum Piercing

Caring for a new septum piercing while dealing with a cold can be challenging. It requires extra attention to avoid irritation and ensure proper healing. Here are some tips to help you manage both:

Stay Hydrated

Consuming plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas, and broths can help alleviate cold symptoms and support the healing process of your piercing. Proper hydration is essential for keeping your body's defense mechanisms strong and warding off infections.

Manage Congestion

Using saline nasal sprays is a gentle and effective method to manage nasal congestion. These sprays provide a soothing effect without causing irritation to your piercing. Avoid using non-saline sprays or irritants that can cause further discomfort or damage.

Avoid Touching the Piercing

Try to minimize touching your septum piercing, especially when you are blowing your nose or sneezing. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face to prevent the transfer of bacteria to the piercing site.

Nasal Hygiene

When blowing your nose, do it gently to avoid putting stress on the piercing. Using a tissue to catch mucus can be a safer alternative to direct contact. Supporting nasal hygiene can help prevent the introduction of bacteria to the area.

Warm Compress

A warm compress on the face can provide relief from sinus pressure without irritating the piercing. This method can be particularly soothing during a cold and helps maintain the area’s overall health.

Avoid Irritants

Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and other irritants that could exacerbate both your cold and the healing process of your piercing. These irritants can complicate matters and slow down the healing time.

Use Pain Relief Wisely

If you need pain relief, opt for over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, be mindful of any potential interactions with other medications you are taking for your cold. Always read labels and consult with a healthcare provider if you are unsure.

Follow Aftercare Guidelines

Continue to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer. Typically, this involves cleaning the area with a saline solution or a recommended antiseptic. Proper aftercare can significantly reduce the risk of infection and promote faster healing.

Rest and Recover

Make sure to get plenty of rest to help your body recover from the cold more efficiently. Your body’s self-healing mechanisms will function optimally when you are well-rested.

Removing the Jewelry
Do not remove the jewelry until the cold has subsided. Once the cold has passed, take it out for a thorough clean. Have tissues handy to clear your nose as needed, being careful not to blow too hard. Make sure no mucus is left stuck to the jewelry, as it can trap bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

Cleaning the Area
If the piercing has not healed, use a cotton bud and saline solution to clean around the area 3 or 4 times a day. This practice can help reduce the potential for infection and maintain the integrity of the healing process.