While this may seem gross and unpleasant, it’s relatively easily treated through medicated cream.
If you notice streaks of red extending from your navel into the skin of your belly, this could be a sign of a worsening infection. Call your doctor if you see these streaks.
The rash may not be perfectly round, or may appear to be 2 or 3 separate rashes in different areas near your navel. Touching or scratching the rash with your hands may help spread it to the area around your navel, leading to the appearance of multiple rashes on your abdomen.
You can purchase an oral or underarm thermometer at any large pharmacy or drug store.
In some cases, your general practitioner may refer you to a dermatologist.
Ask your doctor how often you should apply the cream or ointment and how much to apply per treatment. Use gloves while applying the ointment, and always wash your hands with soap and warm water after touching the area or applying medications. This will help prevent the infection from spreading.
In the case of a mild belly-button infection, the doctor may recommend that you use an over-the-counter antifungal ointment or cream. Use gloves to apply the ointment and always wash your hands with warm, soapy water when you’re done.
Once you step out from the shower, don’t put any lotion onto your belly button (even if you apply lotion to the rest of your body). The lotion will make your belly button damp and will encourage bacteria to grow. To prevent the spread of infection, don’t share your towels or washcloths with anyone else, even your spouse or partner. Clean the shower or bath after you use it with a solution of 1⁄2 c (120 mL) of bleach per 1 US gal (3. 8 L) of water.
If you’d rather not use your finger to clean your navel, try using a clean, damp washcloth instead.
If you live other people, don’t share personal items such as towels or bedclothes with them. Encourage everyone to wash their hands regularly.
If you had your navel pierced by a professional piercer, they should have given you directions concerning how to keep your piercing clean and free from infection. Follow these to prevent infection.
Make an appointment with your doctor immediately if you have a fever in addition to the infection, or if the infection is intensely painful.
If you’re worried about re-infection, also try to wear relatively loose, baggy shirts. Tight shirts don’t allow the belly button to dry out and can trap bacteria inside, both of which can lead to re-infection.
