Stone located in the navel region: Description, reasons, indications, and extraction procedures
In our bodies, two types of buildups can occur in the belly button - navel stones and blackheads. While they may seem similar, understanding their differences is crucial for proper care and treatment.
A **navel stone**, also known as an umbilical stone, is a hard and smooth formation that appears in the navel. It is often described as a buildup of keratin or debris in the navel that can oxidize and turn hard over time. This solid, sometimes dark or black mass can form due to accumulated keratin and other debris over a long period [1].
On the other hand, a **blackhead** is a small bump on the skin, typically caused by a pore being clogged with dead skin cells and oil. Blackheads are usually smaller and more rounded, with a visible black or dark head [2]. They form when pores become clogged with dead skin cells and oil, then oxidize, causing the characteristic dark color.
Distinguishing between them can be done by considering three factors: appearance, composition, and texture. Navel stones often appear as harder, more solid masses that might be larger than blackheads, which are typically small and rounded. Navel stones are more likely to be composed of keratin and other debris, while blackheads are formed by clogged pores. Lastly, navel stones can feel harder, while blackheads are usually softer [3].
To prevent navel stones, it is important to wash the navel regularly with mild soap and water. If it is difficult to dry the inside of the navel with a towel, a dry Q-tip can usually do the trick. It is important to make sure no soap remains in the navel and to use a clean, moist cotton bud or Q-tip [4].
If a navel stone causes an infection and an abscess, surgical removal may be necessary. In less severe cases, doctors can remove navel stones with noninvasive methods, such as softening the stone and drawing it out, or using cotton swabs soaked in sterile saline [5]. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Meanwhile, blackheads can be treated with over-the-counter products designed to unclog pores or by a dermatologist who can perform professional treatments.
In summary, while navel stones and blackheads share some similarities, understanding their differences is key to proper care and treatment. If you notice any unusual buildups in your belly button, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
References: [1] American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Navel stones. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-conditions/navel-stones [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Blackheads. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blackheads/symptoms-causes/syc-20353208 [3] Healthline. (2020). Navel stones: Symptoms, causes, and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/navel-stones [4] American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Caring for your belly button. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/kids/skin/belly-button-care [5] Healthline. (2020). Navel stones: Symptoms, causes, and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/navel-stones
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