Snake eyes piercings, a type of horizontal tongue piercing near the tip, have gained popularity due to their unique look. However, some people worry about whether these piercings can cause serious issues, like paralysis. Let’s break this down in simple terms.
Can Snake Eyes Piercing Paralyze You?
In short, no, snake eyes piercings won’t paralyze you in the typical sense, but there are still some real health risks to consider. Paralysis usually involves nerves connected to movement, like in your spine or brain, and isn’t something that can be caused directly by a tongue piercing. The tongue itself doesn’t have nerves that control your whole body, so getting a piercing there won’t cause full-body paralysis.
However, complications with this piercing can affect your tongue’s health and comfort, and some of those issues can be quite serious.
What Are the Real Risks of Snake Eyes Piercing?
While paralysis isn’t a risk, other complications are more common, including:
- Infections: The mouth has a lot of bacteria, so without proper care, a snake eyes piercing can get infected. This might cause swelling, pain, or pus, and in severe cases, an untreated infection can even lead to other health issues if the bacteria spread.
- Damage to Teeth and Gums: Snake eyes piercings sit horizontally and can rub against your teeth and gums. Over time, this can wear down enamel (the outer layer of your teeth), cause chipping, or even lead to gum recession. These problems don’t cause paralysis, but they can require costly dental work and may impact your ability to chew or talk comfortably.
- Nerve Damage: Although it won’t lead to full-body paralysis, improper piercing could hit small nerves in the tongue. This might cause temporary numbness or a tingling sensation in the tongue, which is uncomfortable but usually goes away with time. Rarely, improper piercing can cause longer-lasting nerve sensitivity.
- Speech and Swallowing Issues: Swelling or the jewelry itself can make speaking or swallowing feel odd, especially while the piercing is fresh. This isn’t paralysis but can feel like a lack of control in the tongue for some people until they get used to the piercing.
How to Minimize Risks
If you’re set on getting a snake eyes piercing, there are some ways to reduce risks:
- Choose an Experienced Piercer: A professional piercer who has done many tongue piercings will know how to place the piercing properly and avoid nerves or blood vessels.
- Follow Aftercare Instructions: Aftercare is key for any piercing, but especially for oral piercings. This means using a saline rinse, keeping the mouth clean, and avoiding certain foods until it heals.
- Watch for Signs of Infection: Swelling, redness, or any discharge should be taken seriously. If you notice any signs of infection, it’s best to see a doctor quickly.