From the Guidelines
If you have an infection in your bellybutton after swimming, it is essential to clean the area gently with mild soap and water, then apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment like Neosporin or Polysporin twice daily for 5-7 days. This approach is crucial in managing the infection, especially considering the potential for bacteria like M. marinum to be present in aquatic environments, as noted in a study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine 1.
Key Considerations
- Keep the area dry between applications to prevent further bacterial growth.
- Cover with a small bandage if needed to prevent friction from clothing.
- Be aware of signs that require medical attention, including:
- Increasing redness
- Warmth
- Swelling
- Pus
- Red streaks extending from the area
- Fever
- Pain that worsens after 48 hours of home treatment
Prevention Strategies
- Thoroughly dry your bellybutton after swimming or bathing to reduce the risk of infection.
- Consider applying an antiseptic solution after swimming in potentially contaminated water, especially in non-chlorinated pools or stagnant water, where the risk of M. marinum and other bacteria is higher, as indicated by the study 1.
- Individuals with deep navels or recent piercings should be particularly cautious, as they are at a higher risk for infection.
From the Research
Infection in Bellybutton from Swimming
- There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies focus on respiratory tract infections, antibiotic dosing, and intra-abdominal infections, but do not specifically address infections in the bellybutton caused by swimming 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies provided discuss the use of antibiotics such as amoxicillin/clavulanate for various infections, but do not mention bellybutton infections or swimming as a cause of infection 2, 3, 4, 6.
- One study discusses the management of intra-abdominal infections, but this is not directly related to bellybutton infections caused by swimming 5.