As with other types of piercings, proper healing is a crucial part of the care process to avoid infections and promote healthy healing. We must understand that the skin around the belly button is more prone to the buildup of sweat, bacteria, and dirt, which increases the risk of infections. With this in mind, note these four steps to start implementing from now on: Regular Cleaning: It is essential to clean the piercing area at least twice a day with a saline solution or a specific piercing cleaner. Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any other products that might irritate the skin. Clean Hands: Always wash your hands before touching your piercing to prevent the transfer of bacteria. Appropriate Clothing: Wear loose and breathable clothing to avoid irritation and constant rubbing against the piercing. Avoid Submerging the Piercing: During the first few weeks, avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or any other non-sterile water environments, as this can introduce bacteria into the wound.
However, even if we do everything right, it's possible to end up in a situation where the belly button becomes inevitably infected. Here are the symptoms that may indicate something is going wrong in that area of the body: Redness and Heat: If the area around the piercing is red and warm to the touch, it could be a sign of infection. Swelling and Pain: Significant swelling and persistent pain are indicative of a possible infection. Discharge: The presence of pus, especially if it's green or yellow and has an unpleasant odor, is a clear sign of infection. Fever: If you experience a fever, it’s a sign that the infection may have spread, and you should seek medical attention immediately. Do you have any of these symptoms? Here’s what you should do.
If you suspect that your belly button piercing is infected, it's crucial not to delay and to act as quickly and accurately as possible. While you can initially treat it at home, if the situation worsens, visit the nearest pharmacy for advice. Careful Cleaning: Clean the infected area twice a day with a saline solution. You can make a homemade solution by mixing one teaspoon of sea salt in a cup of warm water. Warm Compresses: Apply warm compresses to the infection to reduce swelling and promote pus drainage. Avoid Irritating Products: Do not use products like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can irritate the skin and worsen the infection. Do Not Remove the Piercing: Unless advised by a medical professional, do not remove the piercing, as this can cause the infection to become trapped in the skin. Topical Antibiotics: You can apply a mild antibiotic ointment after cleaning the area to help fight the infection. Consult a Professional: If the infection does not improve within a few days or worsens, consult a healthcare professional for additional treatment. As you can see, almost everything you need is likely available at home. So, don’t panic, and handle the situation as needed.
Preventing an infection is always better than having to treat it. Here are some tips to keep your navel piercing healthy and infection-free: Choose a licensed professional: Ensure that your piercing is done by a licensed professional in a clean and sterile environment. Use appropriate materials: Opt for high-quality jewelry made of hypoallergenic materials such as titanium, surgical steel, or niobium. Avoid premature jewelry changes: Do not change the jewelry until the piercing is fully healed, which can take several months. Keep the area dry: After showering, make sure to thoroughly dry the piercing area to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid unnecessary contact: Do not touch the piercing unnecessarily and prevent others from touching it.
It is crucial to know when to seek professional help. You should consult a doctor if: The infection does not improve: If symptoms persist or worsen after a few days of home treatment. High fever: Fever is a sign that the infection may be spreading. Intense pain: Pain that does not decrease with common painkillers may indicate a more serious complication. Excessive discharge: Continuous presence of pus, especially if it is an unusual color or has a foul smell. Consulting a medical professional in a timely manner can prevent major complications and ensure that your navel piercing heals properly. Do you have any questions about how to prevent or treat infections from your tattoos or piercings? We are at your disposal. Just click the WhatsApp button below, and we will respond immediately.
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