Associated symptoms
Since pus in or from the navel is due to an inflammation caused by bacteria, the typical accompanying symptoms of an inflammatory reaction can occur. In addition to redness, pain and overheating of the navel, swelling can occur. Itching at and around the navel is also possible.
More rarely, but still possible, are accompanying symptoms that affect the whole body, such as headache and fatigue. In such a case, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible, as these are the first signs of the inflammation spreading to the blood, which in the worst case can be life-threatening. If pus is in or comes out of the navel, this is usually associated with a bad smell.
Pus is composed of, among other things, killed bacteria and cells of the immune system. The decomposition process causes a bad smell, so the navel stinks. If the inflammation is successfully treated by thorough hygiene measures, among other things, no pus will form and the bad smell will disappear.
The inflammation of the navel releases pus as well as tissue hormones that cause pain. This is then often perceived as a throbbing, dull pain and is usually limited to the navel and the immediate surroundings.When the inflammation is treated, both the pus and the pain disappear. If pain occurs throughout the abdomen, a doctor should be consulted.
Treatment
The treatment of pus in and out of the navel depends first of all on the cause of the inflammation responsible for the pus formation. It is particularly important to carry out hygiene measures carefully in order to reduce the number of germs in the affected area. The navel should be carefully washed regularly with lukewarm water and, as soon as the skin is dry again, sprayed with a disinfectant.
A possible trigger of the inflammation, such as a navel piercing, must also be removed. In some cases an additional treatment with an antibiotic is also indicated, which usually has to be taken in tablet form for a few days. In some cases, however, the doctor will rather prescribe an ointment containing antibiotics, which should be applied several times a day in and around the navel. If the above-mentioned therapeutic measures are followed, the inflammation usually heals within a few days, so that no more pus develops in or comes out of the navel.
