TL;DR:
- Umbilical hernias occur when intestines or fat push through weak abdominal muscles, causing a bulge near the navel.
- Causes: In infants, incomplete umbilical ring closure; in adults, muscle weakening due to pregnancy, obesity, or chronic coughing.
- Symptoms: Visible bulge (worsens with coughing or standing), pain/discomfort, tender skin, pressure sensation, potential nausea/vomiting if incarcerated.
- Treatment:
- Infants: Often resolves spontaneously; monitor if mild.
- Adults: Surgery recommended if hernia is large, painful, or risks complications. Options include open or laparoscopic repair with/without mesh.
- Urgent Intervention: Needed for incarcerated hernias causing intestinal blockage (symptoms: pain, redness, swelling, vomiting).
- Post-surgery: Recovery requires rest, activity limitation, and check-ups.
Umbilical hernia is an ailment that affects both children and adults. It is an affliction in which a portion of intestine or fat passes through weakened muscles around the umbilicus, creating a visible bulge. The following post discusses in detail the symptoms, causes and treatment options for this condition.
Causes of umbilical hernia
Umbilical hernia can have various causes, which depend on the patient's age and other health factors. The most common in newborns and infants is incomplete closure of the umbilical ring at birth. During pregnancy, the umbilical cord passes through a small opening in the baby's abdominal muscles. After birth, this opening usually closes spontaneously. If this does not happen, an umbilical hernia may develop. Over time in adults, abdominal muscles can weaken, increasing the risk of hernia. In addition, pregnancy, especially multiple pregnancies, can cause a significant increase in abdominal pressure, which in turn leads to a weakening of the muscles around the umbilicus and the formation of a hernia. Excessive body weight increases abdominal pressure, which in turn can also lead to this problem. In addition, chronic illnesses that cause frequent and severe coughing cause an umbilical hernia, as coughing increases pressure in the abdominal cavity. This in turn leads to a weakening of the abdominal wall and the occurrence of an umbilical hernia.
What are the symptoms of an umbilical hernia?
The most characteristic symptom of an umbilical hernia is a visible or palpable bulge in the umbilical region. This bulge may be more visible when a person coughs, laughs or tenses the abdominal muscles, and disappear when lying on the back. In some cases, an umbilical hernia causes pain or discomfort, especially during exercise, prolonged standing or coughing. This pain is localized to the umbilical region. Some patients also describe a pulling or pressure sensation in the hernia area, especially when performing activities that increase abdominal pressure. In addition, the skin in the hernia area may be sensitive to touch or tender, especially if the hernia is incarcerated (locked in a position where it cannot retract into the abdominal cavity). In rarer cases, if the umbilical hernia becomes incarcerated and the flow of intestinal contents is blocked, nausea, vomiting and symptoms of intestinal obstruction may occur. This is a condition that requires urgent medical intervention. In some people, a hernia can cause a change in the shape and color of the navel, which becomes more convex or reddened. Over time, especially if no treatment is given, the hernia enlarges, leading to increased symptoms and greater discomfort.
How to treat an umbilical hernia?
Treatment depends on the size of the umbilical hernia, the symptoms and the age of the patient. In newborns and infants, it often disappears on its own within the first few years of life, as the muscles around the umbilicus gradually strengthen and close. In such cases, the doctor may recommend regular monitoring of the hernia without surgical intervention. In adults, on the other hand, if the hernia is small and does not cause pain or other symptoms, the doctor recommends observation and regular check-ups. Patients are advised to avoid activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as lifting heavy objects or intense exercise. If the umbilical hernia does not disappear on its own in a child, and is large and causes pain in adults, surgical intervention is required. Surgery involves closing the opening in the abdominal muscles through which the hernia occurs. The surgeon makes an incision in the umbilical region, drains the contents of the hernia into the abdominal cavity, and then strengthens the weakened muscles, often using synthetic mesh, which reduces the risk of hernia recurrence. Laparoscopy, surgery through several small incisions using a camera and special instruments, is also performed.
Urgent treatment of an umbilical hernia is necessary if it becomes blocked. Such a condition can lead to intestinal ischemia and other serious complications. In such a situation, immediate surgery is necessary to free the trapped hernia and repair the opening in the muscle. After surgery, the patient may require a period of recovery, which includes limiting physical activity, avoiding heavy lifting and gradually introducing exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles. Regular medical check-ups are important to monitor the healing process and prevent recurrence of the hernia.
What are the indications for treatment of an umbilical hernia?
In newborns and infants, if the hernia is large in size and more than 1.5 cm in diameter, doctors may recommend early surgical treatment to prevent complications. When a child experiences pain, discomfort or other symptoms associated with a hernia, surgical intervention is also necessary. In addition, a hernia that becomes incarcerated and causes pain requires urgent intervention. For adults, if an umbilical hernia is associated with pronounced pain, discomfort, a pulling sensation or other symptoms, surgical treatment is indicated. When it gradually enlarges, on the other hand, there is a greater risk of complications, such as hernia entrapment, which is an indication for surgery. Doctors also recommend surgery when the hernia becomes incarcerated and the abdominal contents become trapped and cannot return to their place. Symptoms of this condition include pain, swelling, redness, nausea and vomiting. The decision to treat an umbilical hernia depends on the patient's individual situation. It is important to discuss all symptoms with the doctor, who will assess the risks and advise on the best treatment strategy. If complications are present, urgent surgical treatment is necessary to avoid serious health problems. At the OT.CO Clinic, we offer comprehensive treatment for such ailments.
Conclusion
An umbilical hernia can range from a minor inconvenience to a serious condition. From causes like weak muscles or increased abdominal pressure to symptoms like visible bulges and pain, understanding the warning signs is key. Treatment options, including careful monitoring or surgery, depend on individual cases. Ignoring symptoms increases risks, while timely medical advice can prevent complications. Whether infant or adult, addressing hernias promptly ensures better outcomes. Always consult a doctor to choose the best course of action for your health.
