These symptoms around belly button to signal when to visit doctor
When your belly button should alert you (photo: screenshot)
Your belly button can tell a lot about your health and when you need to see a doctor.
Daily Expres gives a list of alarming symptoms related to the belly button.
What you need to know about the umbilicus
The umbilical cord is cut at birth, leaving a small clamped portion that gradually falls off within a week or two.
Why does the belly button sometimes smell
Sometimes dirt and bacteria can accumulate in your belly button, which can be cleaned during washing. A smelly belly button is a sign of poor hygiene, but some people have particularly deep belly buttons that are harder to clean.
Even if you maintain proper hygiene and your belly button still smells or you have other symptoms, it could indicate an infection, and you may need treatment from a doctor.
These and other symptoms may include redness or swelling around the belly button and discharge.
Why does the belly button swell
There are different types of swelling that can appear in or around the belly button. One of them is an umbilical hernia, which is very common in young children.
It looks like a painless lump in or near the belly button. It may enlarge during laughter, coughing, crying, or using the bathroom, and may reduce when you relax or lie down. In many cases, an umbilical hernia resolves itself as the child reaches four to five years of age, as the muscles around the belly button strengthen again.
It can also develop in adults, and without treatment, the hernia may worsen over time.
Why does the belly button itch
Sometimes an infection in the belly button can cause itching, but it usually responds well to treatment. Antifungal creams can help, but if symptoms persist, it may be best to consult a doctor. Your belly button is also covered by skin, so various skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can affect it, leading to itching.
Can you get belly button cancer
It's extremely rare, but cancer of the belly button can develop.
Also, read about three skincare mistakes that will make your skin awful and problematic.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
