Having a belly button piercing (or “navel piercing”) is a common body modification among young people today. It is an interesting and stylish way to express yourself, but it also comes with some risks. Infection is a common complication of this kind of body piercing, and proper care is essential to prevent it. In this article, we will discuss how to clean an infected belly button piercing and what you can do to avoid infection.
Why Do Belly Button Piercings Get Infected?
Belly button piercings are prone to infection because of their location. Bacteria can easily enter the piercing through the skin and cause an infection. The area around the piercing is also moist and warm, which is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Additionally, if the piercing is not done properly or if the jewelry is not sterilized, it can also increase the risk of infection.
Signs of an Infection
It is important to be aware of the signs of an infection so that you can take action as soon as possible. Common signs of an infected belly button piercing include redness, tenderness, swelling, pain, and discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Cleaning an Infected Belly Button Piercing
The first step in cleaning an infected belly button piercing is to remove the jewelry. This will help to reduce the risk of further infection. Once the jewelry is removed, you should clean the area with a gentle soap and warm water. It is important to use a mild soap so as not to irritate the area further. After you have washed the area, you should pat it dry with a clean cloth.
Medicated Treatments
In some cases, your doctor may recommend using a medicated treatment for your infected belly button piercing. Common medicated treatments include topical antibiotics, antiseptic creams, and antibiotic ointments. You should always follow your doctor’s instructions when using these treatments. Additionally, if your doctor has prescribed an oral antibiotic, you should take it as directed.
Home Remedies
In addition to medicated treatments, there are also some home remedies that can help to reduce the symptoms of an infected belly button piercing. For example, soaking the area in warm salt water can help to reduce swelling and discomfort. You can also apply a cold compress to the area to reduce inflammation. Additionally, you can try applying some natural oils, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, to the area to help fight infection.
Preventing Infection
The best way to prevent infection is to take proper care of your piercing. Be sure to clean the area regularly with a mild soap and warm water. Additionally, you should avoid touching the area with dirty hands, and you should also avoid swimming or soaking in water while your piercing is still healing. Finally, you should make sure that you purchase jewelry from a reputable source to ensure that it is sterilized and safe to use.
Conclusion
Infection is a common complication of belly button piercings, but it can be prevented with proper care. If you do experience an infection, it is important to seek medical attention and to follow the instructions of your doctor. Additionally, you can use home remedies such as salt water soaks and cold compresses to help reduce the symptoms. With the proper care, your belly button piercing should heal quickly and safely.