Belly button infection is quite common and mainly resulted from an improperly-treated belly button piercing. In addition, poor hygiene on the belly button skin and frequent touching with unwashed hands can also possibly be the triggers. Some main symptoms of an infected belly button are swelling, which is accompanied by mild pain, foul odor around the navel area, and discharge from the wound site. In some more severe cases, bleeding and severe nausea may also occur.

Treatment for an infected belly button

Proper treatments for an infected belly button is tremendously important, as this is a part of your body, wherein excessive moisture is found and dirt and bacteria may be accumulated. Many people even do not notice the early signs of an infected belly button, which in many cases is inflammation of the affected area. To make sure you are not developing belly button infection, check the area regularly when taking a shower. In case you have developed one, here are some things you can do to perform belly button infection treatments.

• Cleaning an infected belly button

Cleaning an infected belly button area is essential as it helps getting rid of any infested bacteria as well as preventing the risk of having future infestation. To clean an infected belly button, although sometimes preferred, the use of hydrogen peroxide is not recommended. It is because either hydrogen peroxide or alcohol can dry out the skin, causing flaking, and thus, may trigger bleeding of the wound site. Instead, clean the belly button with warm saltwater that can be made from a glass of warm water and a teaspoon of salt. Using a cotton swab, gently wipe the infected area and then pat dry with a clean washcloth.

• Bringing down the inflammation

An earliest sign of an infected belly button is usually a swelling area or an inflammation. It is important to bring this inflamed area down, since it will help the entire healing process. This will also reduce the pain and dirt accumulation. To bring an inflammation down, apply a warm compress on the affected area and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This will promote sufficient blood circulation to the area, which fasten the healing process.

• Killing infesting bacteria

The majority of belly button infection cases are triggered by abnormal bacteria infestation on the wound site. Therefore, you will see some pus or blood discharge on the site, since the body immune system tries to defeat these bacteria. In order to get rid of the infection thoroughly, you will need to get rid of these bacteria. To do this, there are a lot of medications that can be used. An anti-fungal ointment can be dabbed to the infection site to minimize the infestation effect. In addition, antibiotics can also be taken to help fight the infection from the inside. Some home remedies are also proven to fight these causal bacteria. Among those you can try are:

• Tea tree oil, which is a potent anti-fungal and antiseptic agent. To use this, mix 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of olive oil and wipe the infected area using a cotton swab. After 10 minutes, wash it off with warm water.
• Turmeric paste, which contains antiseptic and antibiotic. To use turmeric for belly button infection, apply the paste onto the affected area and wait until dry. Afterwards, wipe the area off with a cotton ball. Repeat the treatment several times a day, as it also reduces the resulted pain and prevent the infection from spreading out.

In addition to these treatments, put in mind that the infected area should always be left dry and clean and hence, wearing breathable, loose clothing can be helpful. In addition, healthy diet loaded with vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants should also be considered.