Umbilical Pain: When to See a Specialist

Q: Umbilical Pain: When to See a Specialist

Dear Miss Peipei： Regarding the issue with your navel, there are many possible diagnoses that need to be considered; it is recommended that you visit a general surgery outpatient clinic at a regional hospital or higher.

Pain in the belly button?

After undergoing abdominal surgery for uterine fibroids, there is a postoperative keloid at the navel.
Recently, there has been a sudden onset of swelling and pain, with tenderness upon touch.
Should I consult a dermatologist (for the keloid) or another specialty (for other issues related to the navel)?

Peipei, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/23

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Miss Peipei: Regarding the issue with your navel, there are many possible diagnoses that need to be considered; it is recommended that you visit a general surgery outpatient clinic at a regional hospital or higher.

Reply Date: 2021/10/23

More Info

Umbilical pain, especially following a surgical procedure such as a laparoscopic myomectomy, can be concerning and warrants careful evaluation. Given your history of surgery and the development of a keloid at the umbilical site, it is essential to consider both the surgical history and the current symptoms when deciding on the appropriate specialist to consult.

Keloids are a type of raised scar that can develop after surgery or injury, and they can sometimes become painful or itchy. The pain you are experiencing could be related to the keloid itself, especially if there has been any recent trauma or irritation to the area. Keloids can also become inflamed, leading to increased sensitivity and discomfort. In this case, a consultation with a dermatologist would be beneficial. Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions and can provide treatments for keloids, including corticosteroid injections, silicone gel sheets, or even surgical options if necessary.

However, it is also crucial to consider other potential causes of umbilical pain. Since you have undergone abdominal surgery, there may be other underlying issues such as adhesions, hernias, or even infections that could be contributing to your symptoms. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, or changes in bowel habits, it would be prudent to see a general surgeon or a gastroenterologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to rule out any complications related to your previous surgery.

In summary, the decision on which specialist to see can depend on the nature of your symptoms. If the pain is localized to the keloid and there are no other concerning symptoms, starting with a dermatologist would be appropriate. However, if you have additional symptoms or if the pain is severe, consulting a general surgeon or gastroenterologist would be advisable to ensure that any serious underlying conditions are addressed.

It is essential to listen to your body and seek medical advice when experiencing new or worsening symptoms, especially following surgery. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and can help alleviate discomfort more effectively. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further evaluation. Your health and well-being should always be the priority.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Umbilical Pain and Protrusion: Which Specialist to Consult?

Hello! Regarding abdominal pain accompanied by an umbilical protrusion (in a male), which specialty should I consult? Thank you!

Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
It is recommended that you take the male patient to a general surgeon for differential diagnosis.

Which Specialist Should I See for Painful Lumps During Pregnancy?

Hello, I am 17 weeks pregnant and recently discovered a hard lump under each armpit. They are painful to the touch. Should I see a doctor? Which specialty should I consult? It also hurts when I raise my arms!

Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Xiaoya: The painful lump is likely due to inflammation, so it would be a good idea to consult an infectious disease specialist. However, it's important to inform the doctor about the pregnancy to ensure safe medication use. Thank you!

Understanding Pelvic Pain: When to See a Specialist

1. Occasionally, there is a sensation of heaviness in the anus, accompanied by abdominal pain. 2. I am unsure if this is related, but during intercourse with my husband, I often experience pain around the lower abdomen, which leads me to stop. 3. Which specialty should I consult ...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The sensation of anal prolapse may be related to uterine prolapse or the presence of fibroids; therefore, it is advisable to first consult a gynecologist and then, if necessary, see a colorectal specialist.

Understanding Widespread Pain: When to See a Specialist for Neurological Issues

Over the past month, I have been experiencing various pains throughout my body. Initially, I consulted a specialist, but due to the wide range of symptoms and the duration of the issue, I began to wonder if it might be related to nerve or blood problems. I am preparing to see a d...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: It is recommended that you print out the detailed description and discuss it with your physician. Based on your description, fibromyalgia should be considered. Clinically, it is differentiated from other conditions that present with widespread pain, such as inflammatory or...