If you are looking for a unique and edgy way to adorn your ears, you might have considered getting a daith piercing. A daith piercing is a piercing through the smallest fold of cartilage in your ear, right at the point where the outer ridge that runs along the top of your ear connects to your inner ear, just above the ear canal. It is one of the most difficult and painful piercings to get, as the cartilage is thick and hard to pierce. But for some people, the pain is worth it, as they believe that a daith piercing can also offer some health benefits, such as relieving migraines and anxiety.
But is there any truth to these claims?
And what are the risks and rewards of getting a daith piercing? In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this trendy and controversial ear piercing.
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What is a daith piercing?
A daith piercing is a type of ear piercing that goes through the crus of the helix, which is the smallest and innermost fold of cartilage in your ear. The word “daith” comes from the Hebrew word for “knowledge” or “wisdom”, which may reflect the belief that this piercing can enhance one’s intuition and awareness.
How is a daith piercing done?
A daith piercing is done by inserting a hollow needle through the crus of the helix, creating a hole that can accommodate a ring or a stud. The process can take anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the skill and experience of the piercer. The pain level varies from person to person, but most people describe it as intense and sharp. Some people may even faint or feel nauseous during or after the procedure.
Daith piercing Healing time
The healing time for a daith piercing can range from six months to a year, depending on how well you take care of it. You will need to clean your piercing twice a day with saline solution or antibacterial soap and avoid touching it or twisting it unnecessarily. You will also need to avoid sleeping on your pierced ear, wearing headphones or earbuds, or exposing your piercing to dirt or sweat.
What are the benefits of a daith piercing?
One of the main reasons why some people get a daith piercing is because they believe that it can help them with their migraines. Migraines are severe headaches that can cause throbbing pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances. They affect about 12% of adults in the US and can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life.
Some people claim that a daith piercing can act as a form of acupuncture, stimulating a pressure point in the ear that corresponds to the head and brain. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the flow of energy and treat various ailments. According to this theory, a daith piercing can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines by affecting the nerves and blood vessels that trigger them.
Another benefit that some people attribute to a daith piercing is that it can help them with their anxiety. Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can cause excessive worry, nervousness, fear, or panic. It affects about 18% of adults in the US and can interfere with one’s daily functioning and well-being.
Some people believe that a daith piercing can calm their anxiety by stimulating the vagus nerve, which is a cranial nerve that runs from the brainstem to various organs in the body. The vagus nerve is responsible for regulating many bodily functions, such as heart rate, breathing, digestion, and mood. By activating the vagus nerve through a daith piercing, some people think that they can lower their stress levels and promote relaxation.
What are the risks of a daith piercing?
While a daith piercing may have some potential benefits for some people, it also comes with some risks and drawbacks that you should be aware of before getting one. Some of these include:
- Infection: As with any piercing, a daith piercing can get infected if it is not done properly or if it is not cleaned regularly. An infection can cause redness, swelling, pus, pain, fever, and even permanent damage to the ear cartilage. To prevent infection, you should choose a reputable and licensed piercer, follow the aftercare instructions carefully, and seek medical attention if you notice any signs of infection.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to the metal or material of the jewelry that they wear in their daith piercings. An allergic reaction can cause itching, rash, blisters, or inflammation around the piercing site. To avoid this, you should choose jewelry that is made of hypoallergenic materials, such as titanium, gold, or surgical steel.
- Rejection or migration: Sometimes, the body may reject or push out a foreign object that is inserted into it, such as a piercing. This can cause the piercing to move from its original position or even fall out completely. Rejection or migration can be caused by various factors, such as trauma, infection, poor-quality jewelry, or improper placement. To prevent this, you should choose a skilled and experienced piercer, wear appropriate jewelry that fits your anatomy, and avoid playing with or tugging on your piercing.
Is a daith piercing right for you?
A daith piercing is a personal choice that depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and health conditions. If you are interested in getting one, you should weigh the pros and cons carefully and do your research before making a decision. You should also consult your doctor if you have any medical concerns or questions about how a daith piercing may affect you.
A daith piercing may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may have anatomical limitations that prevent them from getting one, such as having too small or too large ears. Some people may also have medical conditions that make them more prone to complications from a daith piercing, such as diabetes, blood disorders, immune disorders, or allergies.
Conclusion
A daith piercing is a type of ear piercing that goes through the smallest fold of cartilage in your ear. It is one of the most painful and difficult piercings to get, but some people believe that it can also offer some health benefits, such as relieving migraines and anxiety. However, these claims are not backed by scientific evidence and there are also some risks and drawbacks associated with getting a daith piercing. Therefore, if you are considering getting one, you should do your research carefully and consult your doctor before making a decision.
