General Information About Belly Button Infection
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a localized skin and soft tissue infection that develops as a result of the multiplication of bacteria or fungi in the hollow area formed by the remnants of the umbilical cord.
The anatomically inward-turning and deep nature of the belly button causes sweat, lint, soap residue, and dead skin cells to accumulate there. This moist environment creates an ideal breeding ground for infection.
Redness around the navel, tenderness and pain that increase when touched, yellow/green purulent discharge, an extremely foul odor, and rarely, a mild fever.
An umbilical hernia is a structural swelling caused by an organ or tissue pushing outward from the inside; it does not cause infection or a bad smell. An infection, on the other hand, is a microbial reaction developing on the outer surface of the skin.
A clinical examination by a specialist physician is sufficient for diagnosis. If the discharge has become chronic or recurs, a swab culture can be taken for laboratory analysis.
Keeping the area dry and clean is the basic principle. Depending on the causative agent (fungus or bacteria), antibiotic or antifungal medications in cream or oral form are prescribed. If an abscess has formed, it is drained under local anesthesia.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
