Introduction
An umbilical hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or other abdominal tissue protrudes through the umbilical opening in the abdominal muscles near the navel (belly button). This condition is common in infants and usually resolves on its own within the first few years of life. However, umbilical hernias can also occur in adults, often due to increased abdominal pressure.
Causes
In infants, umbilical hernias are often caused by incomplete closure of the abdominal muscles around the umbilical cord after birth. In adults, they can be caused by:
- Increased abdominal pressure due to obesity
- Pregnancy
- Chronic coughing
- Straining during bowel movements
- Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen)
- Multiple pregnancies
Symptoms
Symptoms of an umbilical hernia may include:
- A soft bulge near the navel
- Discomfort or pain in the area of the bulge, especially when straining, coughing, or lifting
- In infants, the bulge may be more noticeable when the baby cries or strains
In most cases, umbilical hernias are painless and do not cause any complications.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually based on a physical examination. A healthcare provider will:
- Examine the navel area for a bulge
- Ask about symptoms and medical history
In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the age of the patient and the size and symptoms of the hernia:
- Infants: Most umbilical hernias in infants close on their own by the age of 4 or 5 years. Surgery is usually only recommended if the hernia is very large, causes discomfort, or does not close by this age.
- Adults: Umbilical hernias in adults are less likely to close on their own and are often repaired surgically to prevent complications such as incarceration (tissue trapped in the hernia) or strangulation (blood supply cut off to the trapped tissue).
Surgical repair involves pushing the protruding tissue back into the abdomen and reinforcing the weakened area with stitches or a mesh. Surgery can be performed as:
- Open surgery: Involves a larger incision.
- Laparoscopic surgery: Uses small incisions, a camera, and specialized instruments.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent umbilical hernias, but you can reduce your risk by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Using proper lifting techniques
- Avoiding straining during bowel movements
- Treating chronic coughs or constipation
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- A new bulge near the navel
- Pain or discomfort in the area of the bulge
- Symptoms that worsen over time
- Sudden, severe pain in the area of the hernia, which may indicate a strangulated hernia (a medical emergency)
Takeaway
An umbilical hernia is a common condition that usually resolves on its own in infants. In adults, surgical repair is often recommended to prevent complications.