Rash and Navel Pain

I started having tenderness in my navel two days ago that has gotten progressively worse.  In addition, there is a red rash around my navel of good size (palm size) which does not itch.  There are no blisters. There is no drainage.  There is swelling in the abdomen area around the navel.  There is severe pain when I get up from a sitting position or roll over in bed right through the navel.  Sometimes there is a little pain (intermittent) now a couple of inches to the left of the navel.  Just sitting in a chair, no pain (unless dog or cat jumps on it and hits navel) or is just a little uncomfortable/swollen. My medication have not changed, my bowel history has not changed, no fever.  Pain medicaiton for my back makes it liveable.  My gallblader (gallbladder) was removed through lap. surgery some ten years ago.  I am overweight and have arthritis plus a mechanical mitral valve.  My IMR is within range (tested two days ago).  I have IBS (brought on by stress and usually resulting in diarrhea and several cramps) and had a colonoscopy two years ago - no diviticulitis (spelling?) was mentioned.  No other changes in lifestyle (i.e., new animals, change in soap, diet, etc.).

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Difficult to say without evaluation.

Imaging the affected area with a plain film and/or CT scan can rule out major GI causes, like colitis, diverticulitis, or appendix disease.

If the scan is negative, you can consider a colonoscopy for a more thorough evaluation of the colon.

The rash should be looked at by a dermatologist.  If it is not improving, a biopsy can be done for a more definitive evaluation.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com