Umbilical hernias are seen by a bulge around the area of the umbilicus (belly button). They are frequently seen in infants and is the cause of the muscle around the umbilical cord that feeds the child while in the womb failing to close completely after the birth of the child.
These hernias are seen in various sizes between 1 and 5 centimeters. There is usually a slight swelling around the umbilicus, or belly button. This swelling can increase in size if the infant cries or strains and be barely noticeable when the child is lying flat.
Umbilical Hernia Diagnosis
Your physician can diagnosis this type of hernia with a simple physical exam there are usually no needs for further testing unless there is a problem or other concerns.
Treatment and Prognosis for Umbilical Hernias
There is usually no concern or requirement of surgery to correct this problem unless the problem persists past the child turning 3 or 4. Most of these Hernias are resolved over time and the muscle will close in early childhood. If the child has grown beyond three you may want to seek advice from the physician.
Umbilical Hernia Symptoms
Usually asymptomatic you should still consult a physician so they can monitor the progress of the child during the early years so the physician can monitor any changes. A very rare but serious problem can occur and that is bowel strangulation, if this happens there will be a need for emergency surgery to repair the problem. Symptoms would be pain, discoloration in the hernia site, swelling or tenderness. Peritonitis is the result sometimes of bowel strangulation and can threaten the life of the child, if your child has any of these symptoms you should consult your physician immediately so he or she can decide the best course of treatment.
Umbilical Hernias in Adults
Although they do occur, umbilical hernias are much less common in adults. Usually causing abdominal pain in an adult, these will more than likely need surgical intervention to repair.
Common causes of adult Umbilical Hernias include:
-Heavy lifting
-Obesity
-Coughing
-Pregnancy
If you feel you may have an umbilical hernia you should seek a consult with a physician even if there is no painor discomfort involved.
