What causes pain at the navel?
May 09, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Chenggang
Introduction
The navel, commonly referred to as the belly button, may cause pain due to various reasons such as cold exposure, constipation, omphalitis, acute gastroenteritis, or colitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. During recovery, consume light, easily digestible semi-liquid foods such as millet porridge or vegetable congee, eat smaller meals more frequently, and maintain adequate nutrition.
The navel, commonly referred to as the belly button, may experience pain due to various causes such as exposure to cold, constipation, omphalitis (navel infection), acute gastroenteritis, or colitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Exposure to cold: If the area around the navel is not adequately kept warm and becomes exposed to cold or wind, it may trigger pain. In such cases, following medical advice, applying a warm towel compress can help improve blood circulation and relieve pain.
2. Constipation: Excessive food intake or lack of physical activity may weaken digestive function and lead to constipation. Severe constipation can cause significant abdominal pain, which may be felt around the navel. Following medical advice, gentle abdominal massage may help stimulate gastrointestinal motility and alleviate constipation.
3. Omphalitis: This is primarily caused by acute bacterial infection. Inflammation can lead to noticeable pain around the navel, along with symptoms such as pus-like discharge and redness or swelling. Patients may use medications such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, or levofloxacin tablets as directed by a physician.
4. Acute gastroenteritis: Often related to overeating or consuming contaminated food, common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Pain may also be felt around the navel. Patients should take medications such as cefixime granules, enteritis relief granules, or amoxicillin capsules as prescribed.
5. Colitis: Associated with microbial infections or intestinal microbiota imbalance, typical symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. If left untreated, the pain may radiate to the navel area. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as methylprednisolone tablets, norfloxacin capsules, or balsalazide sodium granules.
During recovery, patients should consume light, easily digestible semi-liquid foods such as millet porridge or vegetable congee. Eating small meals frequently and maintaining adequate nutrition is also important.
