Umbilical Skin Issues and Their Possible Connection to Diarrhea

Q: Umbilical Skin Issues and Their Possible Connection to Diarrhea

Hello： 1. <br>The ingredients in the Yuan Chao Shuyi Skin Ointment include antifungals, steroids, and antibiotics, which should be effective for general epidermal infections. <br>However, if the infection around your navel has penetrated deeper into the tissue, you may need to se

Umbilical dermatitis

Hello Doctor,
I have two questions I would like to ask:
1.
A few days ago, I noticed a patch of broken skin next to my navel, and the navel itself appears red, swollen, and peeling, with a slight aching sensation.
I went to the pharmacy to ask the pharmacist for a suitable ointment, and they recommended Yuan Chao's Soothe Skin Ointment.
Upon reviewing the ointment's instructions today, I found that it seems primarily intended for treating athlete's foot and fungal infections.
I am a bit confused about whether it is appropriate for my symptoms.

2.
I have been experiencing diarrhea for the past few days and would like to know if the issue with my navel could potentially cause the diarrhea, or if there is little correlation between the two?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/06

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: 1.
The ingredients in the Yuan Chao Shuyi Skin Ointment include antifungals, steroids, and antibiotics, which should be effective for general epidermal infections.
However, if the infection around your navel has penetrated deeper into the tissue, you may need to seek medical attention and consider antibiotic treatment.
I recommend monitoring the redness and swelling of the skin around your navel over the next few days; if there is no improvement, you should see a doctor.
2.
Generally, an epidermal infection around the navel should not affect the gastrointestinal tract or cause diarrhea, unless the infection has spread to the peritoneum or gastrointestinal tract.
In such cases, in addition to diarrhea, you may also experience symptoms like fever and abdominal pain.
If you are only experiencing diarrhea, it is likely not related to the issue with your navel's epidermis.

Reply Date: 2022/08/06

More Info

When it comes to skin issues around the umbilical area, particularly with symptoms like redness, peeling, and pain, it is essential to consider a few factors. The skin around the belly button can be prone to irritation and infections due to moisture retention, friction from clothing, and the presence of bacteria or fungi. Given that you have noticed a patch of broken skin and redness, it is possible that you are experiencing a localized skin infection, such as a fungal infection or dermatitis.

The cream you were given, which is primarily used for athlete's foot and fungal infections, may indeed be appropriate if your symptoms are indicative of a fungal infection. Fungal infections can manifest as red, itchy, and peeling skin, and they can occur in warm, moist areas of the body, including around the belly button. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen after using the cream, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Regarding your second question about diarrhea and its possible connection to the umbilical skin issues, it is generally unlikely that a skin condition around the belly button would directly cause gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea. However, there are a few indirect connections to consider. For instance, if you have an underlying infection that is causing both the skin irritation and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as a viral or bacterial infection, there could be a correlation. Additionally, stress or anxiety related to your skin condition could potentially affect your digestive system, leading to symptoms like diarrhea.

It is also worth noting that dietary changes or exposure to new foods, especially if you have recently moved or traveled, can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances. If you suspect that your diarrhea is related to something you have eaten or a new environment, it may be beneficial to keep a food diary to identify any potential triggers.

In summary, while the cream you received may be suitable for treating your umbilical skin issue, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the condition does not improve or if you experience worsening symptoms, seeking medical attention is advisable. Additionally, while there may not be a direct link between your skin issue and diarrhea, it is essential to consider overall health and any potential infections that could be affecting both your skin and gastrointestinal system. If diarrhea persists, it is also recommended to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

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