Ear piercing – Procedures, risks and benefits

Fashion has evolved in a multifold manner. Fashion icons are popular across the globe. Trends keep changing, and people are open to change.

One such fashion trend which gained popularity is the concept of ear piercing.

Initially followed as a custom as piercing the ear would provide various health benefits, it also has a growing fashion trend.

So, if you are considering piercing your ears, the good news is that you are not alone. Many people across the globe have pierced their ears.

Ear piercing is an entirely safe and simple procedure. Knowing some of the following guidelines is essential while getting your ears pierced. Knowing all the information beforehand will cut down the various chances of infection.

Does ear piercing work?

Ear piercing works depending on where a person decides to go for piercing. Ear piercings are done with the help of a professional with either a needle or a piercing to create a hole in the ear. After the hole is pierced, the piercing is placed in the hole.

Is ear piercing safe?

Safety relies entirely on where the person decides to pierce and the part of the ear they choose. A person may feel a little bit of pain.

Usually, there is no need for anaesthesia as the pain is very mild. Only in rare cases, there is a need for anaesthesia.

Little or no bleeding is expected during the process.

When should I not pierce my ear?

Ear piercing would be a bad idea when a woman is pregnant because of the risks of getting an infection.

People with a few medical conditions like

• Diabetes
• Hemophilia
• Heart conditions
• Skin conditions

should be consulting a medical professional for advice.

What are the risks involved in ear piercing?

Ear piercing is a process which is done with needles, and as a result of it, a hole is made into the skin, which provides scope for various problems like,

• Allergic reactions to a few people.
• Infections are swelling or excessive bleeding.
• Skin irritation, skin trouble or redness in the skin.
• Various diseases like Hepatitis B and C can also be picked up.

Therefore, it is important to understand that only a professional should do an ear-piercing. In some cases, paediatricians may do piercing for young children.

Choosing proper hygiene and a good studio is important.

Does piercing the ear have any benefits?

Apart from being trendy, fashion ear piercing has a few health benefits to offer

1. Brain development

Traditionally people believe that ear-piercing, especially at an age in kids, would ensure proper development of the brain. The lobes have a point that connects the right hemisphere to the brain’s left hemisphere; piercing this point would help activate the parts of the brain. Ear piercing is an Indian practice from ancient times which is known as Karna Veda.

2. Reproductive health

A vital function of the ear’s pressure points is that it is important for reproductive health, and piercing the ear would help maintain a healthy menstrual cycle in females.

3. Maintains an energy

There is a widely prevalent belief that when people wear earrings, energy flow will be constant and maintained in their bodies.

4. Eyesight

The centre of vision lies in the central point of the ear; therefore, applying pressure to these points would help improve eyesight. Piercing the ear would apply constant pressure at this point.

5. Ear health

According to ancient Indian beliefs and Ayurvedic beliefs, essential acupressure points are present in the ear. Applying pressure on it would relieve the symptoms of Tinnitus and keep the ear healthy.

6. Digestive health

Stimulating the ear lobes or applying pressure in the point is believed to maintain a person’s digestive system. This is also the hunger point and its trigger. Piercing the ears would reduce the chances of a person being obese even though there is a wide belief that a person’s lifestyle choices would keep him active and healthy. Ear piercing would just act as a stimulant.

7. Sperm production

Ear piercing in men is believed to help in sperm production. This is one of the main reasons young men are ear pierced compulsorily in various traditional practices in various communities to help maintain their reproductive health.

What is the right time to pierce your ears?

Usually, ear piercing is done in the 10th month or first year after a child’s birth. However, there are no restrictions on when a person decides to get his ears pierced.

It is important to pierce the ear with a professional and avoid infection. Cleaning the area around the piercing before and after the piercing is recommended.

To sum up

Ear piercing is believed to offer the above-mentioned health benefits.

According to the ancient Indian beliefs in Ayurveda, ear-piercing plays a pivotal role in health. Ear piercing is done at an early age for proper brain development. However, there are no restrictions on when a person decides to pierce his ear.

Taking care of the pierced area is essential. Washing it regularly and avoiding touching the particular pierced area is tempting to scratch to prevent germs causing infection.

If the itchiness continues and has a discharge, consult a doctor.