Umbilical Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help

Umbilical swelling

Recently, a lump suddenly appeared on the left side of my navel.
A few days ago, it was painful even without touching it, but after nearly a week, it only hurts when I touch it.
The lump is soft and round, almost obscuring the center of the navel.
I have been taking medication prescribed by a dermatologist for three days, but there has been no improvement.
Could this possibly be a tumor?

Hua Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/25

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery

It seems to be an infected tumor complicated by cellulitis; it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2023/06/25

More Info

Umbilical swelling, particularly when it appears suddenly and is accompanied by pain, can be concerning. The swelling you describe on the left side of your navel could be due to several potential causes, and understanding these can help you determine the appropriate next steps.

One common cause of umbilical swelling is an umbilical hernia. This occurs when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through the abdominal wall near the belly button. Hernias can be soft and may become more prominent when you cough, sneeze, or strain. They can also cause discomfort or pain, especially if they become incarcerated or strangulated, which is a medical emergency.

Another possibility is an infection. An infection in the area of the umbilicus can lead to swelling, redness, and tenderness. This could be due to a skin infection or an infection related to an underlying condition. If the swelling is warm to the touch or accompanied by fever, this could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.

Cysts or lipomas (benign fatty tumors) can also present as soft, movable lumps near the umbilicus. These are generally not painful unless they become inflamed or infected.

In some cases, the swelling could be related to gastrointestinal issues, such as appendicitis, especially if the pain radiates to the lower abdomen. Appendicitis typically presents with more generalized abdominal pain, often starting around the belly button and then moving to the right lower quadrant.

Regarding your concern about the possibility of a tumor, while it is less common for tumors to present as a sudden swelling in the umbilical area, it is not impossible. Tumors can be benign or malignant, and if there is any concern about the nature of the swelling, it is crucial to seek further evaluation.

Given that you have already seen a dermatologist and have not experienced improvement after three days of treatment, it is advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider who specializes in abdominal or gastrointestinal issues, such as a gastroenterologist or a general surgeon. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to better understand the nature of the swelling.

In summary, umbilical swelling can arise from various causes, including hernias, infections, cysts, or gastrointestinal issues. If the swelling persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

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