Hi there,
I got my naval pierced at Blackstar about 5 days ago, and I've been going for a run every morning since 2 days after the piercing. When I run the piercing feels kind of heavy on my belly because of the excess movement but I figured that's normal since my body's not used to having the extra weight of the barbell on my naval.
However, after I get home I notice whitish pus around the top of the piercing and the skin feels very tender. I have followed the aftercare instructions very carefully, cleaning it twice a day (and slowly weaning off to once a day) with liquid soap then applying Polysporin.
Once I leave the piercing alone overnight it gets better and there is no more pus or crusties. What I'm just wondering is whether or not it's safe to continue running with such a new piercing, and if vigorous exercise would cause migration.
Just want to be safe! :)
Thanks.
During the initial healing stages the tissues are fragile. If the exercise is causing even minor damage, you will see pus as the white blood cells migrate to the area to clean up the damaged tissue.
What has me concerned is the feeling of heaviness in the jewelry. Perhaps switching to a lighter piece, or providing some support for the jewelry during your exercise would be advisable.
Come in and see us if you have a chance.
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Blackstar Forum Administrator
I can't come in because I'm out of the country this summer. Would providing support (i.e. gauze and tape?) during exercise suffice for the next couple months?
Just noticed you are on line.
Gauze and tape is probably the best way to do it. You will know when running if the jewelry is still feeling heavy or not. You might try a less strenuous pace or a shorter run if you continue to experience irritation. You are the best judge of what works, and if there is a problem.
By out of the country, what do you mean? Climate and environment might be a factor.
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Blackstar Forum Administrator
Thanks for the advice. I'm in Singapore and the weather is outrageously hot and humid. Would that have any negative effects on my piercing?
Perspiration can have an adverse effect. Salt concentrates on the skin as water evaporates. Carry a small bottle of water (bottled water!) and rinse the area gently after exercise, then dry. Do NOT leave the gauze in place. Keep the area of your navel comfortable.
Be careful not to make a habit of rinsing your navel with water. Anything done to excess is ill advised. After a run, yes, but try to acclimatize.
Swimming in a chlorinated pool is probably OK, but I would avoid beaches until healing is well along. I had a client who left for Puerto Rico the day after a navel piercing without telling me about her pending trip. She came to me the day after her return because of an sudden inflammation of her navel. Tropical parasites love fresh wounds. Be careful.
If you keep your piercing comfortable, it will probably be fine. Do as little as you have to to keep it so, so you are not the source of any irritation.
Enjoy Singapore.
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Blackstar Forum Administrator
That sounds simple enough! Thanks a lot for your advice (and efficient replies!)-- this website/forum is incredibly helpful!
