Buzz
An infected belly button, although unpleasant, is usually a minor issue that resolves quickly. The warm, dark environment of the belly button fosters the growth of fungi and bacteria, occasionally leading to infections. Getting a belly button piercing also increases the risk. Prompt treatment is advisable, as infections can become painful. Thankfully, antibiotics and changes in personal hygiene can typically clear up the infection.
Key Points to Consider
- If the infection is bacterial, apply an antibiotic ointment. For fungal infections, use a topical antifungal.
- Ensure daily showers to maintain cleanliness and prevent future infections.
- Consult a doctor if the infection persists beyond a few days or if you develop a fever.
Procedure
Managing an Infection
Schedule a doctor's appointment if you suspect a navel infection. If you're not experiencing fever and the discomfort isn't severe, you can wait 2–3 days for the infection to resolve. If not, or if symptoms worsen, consult your doctor. Detail your symptoms and indicate when the infection began.
- In some instances, your general practitioner might refer you to a dermatologist.
Apply prescribed antibiotic ointment or cream. If bacteria cause your belly button infection, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic cream. Apply it 2-3 times daily for about a week. As you use the cream, the infection and associated pain should diminish.
- Ask your doctor about application frequency and quantity per treatment.
- Wear gloves while applying and always wash hands with soap and warm water afterward to prevent spreading the infection.
Use antifungal cream for fungal infections. For fungal navel infections, your doctor will prescribe an antifungal cream. Apply as directed by rubbing onto the affected area.
- For mild infections, over-the-counter antifungal creams may be recommended.
- Apply with gloves and wash hands afterward with warm, soapy water.
Maintain daily showers to prevent future infections. Showering is vital for cleaning your navel and keeping bacteria and fungi away. Use gentle soap, a soft washcloth, and warm water to cleanse your abdomen and navel.
- After showering, avoid applying lotion to your belly button, as it can create a damp environment ideal for bacterial growth.
- Avoid sharing towels or washcloths to prevent infection spread.
- Clean the shower or bath with a bleach solution after each use.
Treat a deep navel with saltwater massage. For an 'innie' belly button, cleanse it with saltwater to prevent reinfection. Mix table salt with warm water, dip a finger into the solution, and massage it into your belly button daily until the infection clears. This helps eliminate lingering bacteria and fungi.
- If using your finger feels uncomfortable, try a clean, damp washcloth instead.
Maintain proper hygiene to prevent infection spread or recurrence. Some navel infections are contagious and can spread to others or other parts of your body, particularly fungal infections. Avoid touching or scratching the infected area, and always wash your hands after. Regularly change and launder your clothing and bedding.
- If living with others, avoid sharing personal items like towels or bedding and promote regular handwashing.
Addressing an Infected Belly Button Piercing
Monitor for red streaks or sharp pains near the piercing. Infections may take a few days to manifest after a navel piercing. Watch for red skin or discharge from the piercing site. If recently pierced and experiencing these symptoms, it's likely infected.
- If professionally pierced, follow provided cleaning instructions to prevent infection.
Consult a doctor if infection symptoms persist beyond 3-4 days. Minor piercing infections typically resolve with cleanliness, but persistent pain or redness warrants medical attention. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics if necessary.
- Seek immediate medical attention if fever accompanies the infection or if it becomes intensely painful.
Maintain your belly button piercing and cleanliness post-infection. To prevent contamination, avoid playing with or removing the piercing for at least 2 months. Cleanse it daily with soap and water. Wearing loose shirts aids drying and reduces bacteria trapping, lowering the risk of reinfection.
- For added protection against reinfection, opt for loose, breathable clothing. Tight shirts hinder drying and can harbor bacteria.
Spotting Signs of a Navel Infection
Observe any oozing discharge from your belly button. Bacterial infections often result in a yellowish discharge around and from the navel. This discharge, though unpleasant, is easily treatable with medicated cream.
- Though unsightly, discharge is common and usually resolved with topical treatment.
Take notice of red, itchy, or flaky skin around your navel. Infected skin may be inflamed, itchy, and occasionally painful. Refrain from scratching, as it can exacerbate the infection. If red streaks extend from your navel, seek medical attention promptly.
- Scratching can worsen the infection or cause it to spread.
Be alert for a dry rash centered on your belly button. Fungal infections often present as a raised rash, possibly with or without bumps, and may or may not be painful. Such rashes may not be perfectly circular and can spread with scratching.
- Touching or scratching the rash can exacerbate the condition, leading to multiple rashes on the abdomen.
Check your temperature to determine if you have a fever. A rising temperature often accompanies a worsening navel infection. While fever alone may not indicate a navel infection, it's a possible sign when coupled with other symptoms like rash or discharge. Look for chills, shivering, cold sensations, lethargy, or sensitive skin.
- Find oral or underarm thermometers at major pharmacies or drugstores.
Insights
- The fungus responsible for many belly button infections is scientifically termed Candida albicans.
- While anyone can develop a navel infection, individuals who sweat profusely, such as athletes or those in hot, humid climates, are more susceptible.
