Berlin, Germany - Tongue-piercing can lead to dangerous inflammation, particularly when piercings are done under poor hygienic conditions.
The dangers include blood poisoning, shock, hepatitis and HIV infection, the coalition of German Pharmacist Associations in Berlin said.
The coalition also pointed out that in Germany there are no laws regulating the quality of piercing studios.
Even if piercing is carried out perfectly in hygienic conditions, there still can be complications. The tongue can swell dramatically in the first days.
This not only hurts, but also impedes talking, eating and swallowing. Also the metal post that is inserted into the tongue can harm teeth and cause the gums to recede.
As every piercing creates an entrance for viruses and bacteria, even minor inflammations should be treated immediately with a disinfectant solution, the coalition said.
If the wound is badly inflamed, painfully swollen and deep red in colour, then a doctor should be consulted. - Sapa-dpa
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