15 Reasons for Belly Button Pain When Pressed

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aman Priya Khanna
Written by Hexahealth Care Team, last updated on 25 August 2023
15 Reasons for Belly Button Pain When Pressed

Pain near Belly Button or Navel? Can it be serious? Continue reading the article to know more about the same.

Some people may experience navel pain or discomfort in their navel or belly button for various reasons. These can include irritation, infection, or the presence of a hernia. You must consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment if you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your belly button. The belly button is a small but essential part of the human anatomy that reminds us of the connection to our mothers during pregnancy.

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What is Belly Button?

  1. The belly button, also known as the tummy button, navel or umbilicus, is a tiny, hollow spot on the abdomen where the umbilical cord's residual scar remains. During pregnancy, the umbilical cord is a flexible tube-like structure that links the foetus to the placenta in the uterus. 
  2. The chord transports nutrition and oxygen from the mother's body to the foetus and wastes products from the foetus. The umbilical cord is cut off once the baby is delivered, and the leftover scar creates the belly button.
  3. The form and size of the belly button might vary from person to person. Some people have an innie, a recessed depression in the abdomen, while others have an outie, which projects outward. Belly buttons are not dangerous but can occasionally get infected or inflamed. To avoid infection, keep the belly button clean and dry.

Navel Pain (belly button pain) can have a variety of causes.

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15 Reasons for Belly Button Pain or Navel Pain

Belly button pain, also called navel pain, can have a variety of causes. Some common causes of navel pain include:

  1. Hernia: When a part of the intestine projects via a weak spot in the abdominal wall. This can cause pain when the belly button is pressed.
  2. Appendicitis: The appendix gets inflamed and infected in this situation. When squeezed, it can produce abdominal pain, including pain in the belly button.
  3. Gallstones: Gallstones are hard deposits in the gallbladder. They can produce pain in the upper right abdomen, which can be felt by pressing the belly button.
  4. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS is a common digestive illness that causes stomach discomfort, bloating and bowel movement abnormalities. When squeezed, it might cause pain in the belly button.
  5. Pancreatitis: This is a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. It can cause abdominal pain that may be felt in the belly button when pressed.
  6. Ovarian cysts: Ovarian cysts are sacs of fluid that grow on the ovaries. When squeezed, they can cause abdominal pain around the belly button.
  7. Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy develops when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, generally in the fallopian tube. It can produce abdominal pain above the belly button when pressed.
  8. Constipation: It is a normal digestive issue that can cause abdominal pain and discomfort. It may cause pain in the belly button when pressed.
  9. Food poisoning: Meal poisoning can induce stomach pain and discomfort as the body attempts to eliminate itself from the infected food. It may produce discomfort in the abdominal button when pushed.
  10. Urinary tract infection (UTI): infections that affect the urinary system. They can cause abdominal pain and discomfort, including pain in the belly button when pressed.
  11. Acid reflux: When stomach acid travels back into the oesophagus, it causes heartburn and other symptoms. When squeezed, it can produce abdominal pain, including pain in the belly button.
  12. Crohn's diseaseIt is an inflammatory bowel illness that causes pain and discomfort in the abdomen. It may induce pain and discomfort in the abdominal button when pushed.
  13. Diverticulitis: It is an infection or inflammation of small pouches in the intestine. When pinched, it can cause abdominal pain, particularly pain in the belly button.
  14. Bloating: Bloating is a chronic digestive problem that causes the belly to feel full and uneasy. It may induce discomfort in the abdominal button when pushed.
  15. Muscular strain: Abdominal pain can also be caused by a strain or sprain in the abdominal muscles. When the belly button is pushed, this might produce pain.

Do’s and Don’ts during Belly Button or Navel pain

Avoid wearing tight clothing, which might irritate the belly button. Please don't use creams inside the belly button, as they might clog it, which promotes bacterial infections. Dry the inside of the belly button entirely after showering. Here are some do's and don'ts for dealing with navel pain or belly button pain:

Do's:

  1. Keep the surface clean: Thoroughly cleansing the region with soap and water can help avoid infection.
  2. Apply a warm compress: A warm compress to the region might help relieve pain and inflammation.
  3. Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  4. Consult a physician: If the pain is severe or does not go away, it is critical to contact a doctor for a correct diagnosis and treatment.

Don'ts:

  1. Do not apply any moisturisers or lotions to the region without visiting a doctor. Some products may irritate the skin or worsen the situation.
  2. Do not underestimate the discomfort. While a small problem might cause pain, it is necessary to seek a doctor to rule out more severe diseases such as appendicitis.
  3. Avoid doing anything that would put tension on your abdominal muscles, which might aggravate the discomfort and delay healing.
  4. If you are suffering from belly button discomfort, you must adhere to the instructions of a medical practitioner. They can give a precise test and a treatment plan to address the issue.

Prevention for Belly Button Pain or Navel Pain

Pay attention to your overall health and hygiene to reduce your risk of developing infections or irritation in your belly button. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising well, and practising good personal hygiene. 

  1. Belly button pain can be due to several reasons, like irritation, infection, and injury. To prevent belly button pain, you can try the following steps:
  2. Keep your belly button clean and dry. Wash the area delicately with soap and water and dry it thoroughly after showering or swimming.
  3. Avoid irritation by wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding tight waistbands or clothing that rubs against your belly button.
  4. Avoid inserting objects, such as cotton swabs or safety pins, into your belly button.
  5. If you have recently had surgery, follow your doctor's instructions for caring for your belly button.
  6. See a healthcare provider for treatment if you have an infection or injury in your belly button.

Takeway

Belly button pain or Navel pain can have a variety of causes, including abdominal conditions such as appendicitis, Crohn's disease, and ovarian cysts, as well as less severe causes like constipation, muscle strain, and ingrown hairs. Other potential causes of belly button pain include hernias, infections, and allergies. In some cases, the cause of belly button pain may be related to a piercing or other injury to the area. It is significant to see a healthcare provider if you are experiencing persistent or severe belly button pain, as some of the underlying causes may require medical treatment.

If you or your loved ones have doubts or symptoms associated with Belly button pain, contact our team of experts at HexaHealth. Our expert team of doctors can consult you and provide you with the proper treatment. Get in touch with us TODAY!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my navel pain?

There are many potential causes of navel pain, some of which may be harmless and others more serious. Some common causes of navel pain include:

  1. Muscle strain or abdominal cramping 
  2. Stomach flu or gastroenteritis 
  3. Hernia can cause pain in the navel area.
  4.  Pain in the navel area is a usual symptom of appendicitis.

What can cause the pain around belly button?

  1. Some common causes include abdominal infections, such as appendicitis or diverticulitis, abdominal hernias, and inflammatory conditions, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. And digestive disorders such as constipation or irritable bowel syndrome.
  2.  Also, abdominal surgery, pregnancy, and menstrual cramps. In some cases, the pain may be referred to from different areas of the body, such as the lower back or pelvis. 

When should I be concerned about pain near belly button?

  1. You should be concerned about pain near your belly button if the pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or difficulty passing stool or urine.
  2. Also, if you notice any changes in the appearance of the area around your belly buttons, such as redness, swelling, or drainage.
  3. These could be signs of an infection or another underlying condition requiring treatment. 

How do you relief navel pain?

To relieve pain near the belly button or navel pain, it is recommended to try the following steps:

  1. Apply a warm compress 
  2. To aid with pain relief, take over-the-counter painkillers
  3. Abdominal pressure or tension should be avoided
  4. Drink plenty of water and keep hydrated.

What does pain around the belly button mean?

  1. Pain around the belly button or navel pain can have a variety of causes. It could be caused by digestive issues such as indigestion, constipation, or inflammatory bowel disease.
  2. It could also be caused by abdominal muscle strains, injuries, or conditions affecting the reproductive or urinary systems.
  3. Other potential causes include hernias, appendicitis, or infections.

Why do I have pain above belly button when pressed?

Pain above the belly button, also known as abdominal pain, can have many causes. Some possible causes of abdominal pain include:

  1. Indigestion or heartburn
  2. Constipation or diarrhoea
  3. Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
  4. Stomach ulcer
  5. Inflammatory bowel illness, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease
  6. Hernia
  7. Kidney stones
  8. Ovarian cysts or other gynaecological issues (in women)
  9. Appendicitis

Is our belly button connected to anything inside our body?

  1. The belly button is the scar left behind when the umbilical cord is severed after birth.
  2. Although it is close to the abdominal muscles and skin and linked to the underlying muscles and organs, the belly button is not directly attached to any internal organs or structures.

Why are belly buttons sensitive?

  1. Belly buttons are sensitive because they contain nerve endings and blood vessels.
  2. The skin around the belly button is thin and has a rich supply of nerve endings, which makes it sensitive to touch. The area also contains tiny blood vessels, which can be liable when touched or pressed.

Is it necessary to clean the belly button?

It is generally recommended to clean the belly button regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt, sweat, and bacteria. This can be done by using a gentle soap and water or a mixture of water and vinegar and gently scrubbing the area with a cotton swab or soft cloth. It is essential to avoid using harsh or abrasive materials, as these can irritate the skin or cause damage.

How to relief pain in middle of stomach above belly button?

There are several ways to relieve pain in the middle of the stomach above the belly button:

  1. Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).
  2. Use a heating pad or hot water bottle to apply heat to the area.
  3. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help flush out any irritants causing the pain.
  4. Avoid eating large meals and spicy or acidic foods, which can cause stomach irritation.

Is pain around belly button serious?

Pain around the belly button (umbilicus) can be a symptom of several conditions, some of which may be serious. Some possible causes of pain around the belly button include:

  1. Abdominal muscle strain or sprain
  2. Hernias
  3. Appendicitis
  4. Gallstones
  5. Ulcers
  6. Pelvic inflammatory disease
  7. Ectopic pregnancy

How painful is the navel pain?

  1. It is difficult for me to accurately assess the level of pain someone may experience in their navel or belly button. Pain around belly button is a subjective experience and can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may experience mild discomfort, while others may experience more severe pain.
  2. Several potential causes of pain in the navel area include infection, irritation, and physical trauma. 

Can cancer cause navel pain?

Although navel pain might be brought on by cancer, this is not a typical cancer symptom. Numerous conditions, including digestive issues, muscular strain, and hernias, can result in navel pain. 

When should I consult a doctor for navel pain?

It is a good idea to see a physician if you are experiencing persistent or severe pain or if you are unsure of the cause of the pain. Some signs that you should consult a doctor include:

  1. The pain is intolerable or getting worse over time
  2. You are pregnant or have delivered a baby
  3. You have a history of hernias or other abdominal problems

How can I cure pain near belly button naturally?

There are several potential natural remedies that you can try for pain near the belly button:

  1. Heat therapy
  2. Cold therapy
  3. Massage
  4. Exercise
  5. Relaxation techniques

What is the best treatment for pain around belly button?

The best treatment for pain around the belly button will depend on the underlying cause. Treatment may include:

  1. Rest
  2. Over-the-counter pain medication
  3. Hot or cold compresses
  4. Avoiding activities that worsen the pain

 

Updated on : 25 August 2023

Reviewer

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES

12 Years Experience

Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More

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HexaHealth Care Team

HexaHealth Care Team brings you medical content covering many important conditions, procedures falling under different medical specialities. The content published is thoroughly reviewed by our panel of qualified doctors for its accuracy and relevance.

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