Diabetes, Red Swollen Belly Button, Painful. Suggestion?

Posted on Fri, 1 Jul 2011

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 Answered on

Fri, 25 May 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 47, 230 pounds, 5 foot nine inches. I have been a reckless person all my life with my health. I take care of everything except me. I know if I have had sympotms of diabetes for about 15years. For the past three years I have had a red swollen belly button that know hurts with preasure. I am going to the doctors for the first time this Thursday. Can you tell me just what I could be facing. I am scared, but no one to blame but myself..Thank you

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rakhi Tayal (42 minutes later)

Hello.
Thanks for writing to us.

Red and swollen belly button which hurts on pressure means it is infected.

Usually it happens after you get the belly button pierced. If there is no history of piercing then spontaneous infection may occur in diabetics due to poor hygiene.

The best treatment is to keep the area clean and wash it at least thrice daily with warm water. Doing a hot fomentation will help. Antibiotics are needed to control the infection which you can get prescribed from your physician.

Do monitor blood glucose levels also, as good control of diabetes is necessary to avoid recurrence.

I hope my answer and recommendations are adequate and helpful. Waiting for your further follow up queries if any.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Radhika