Umbilical Hernia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

An umbilical hernia is a common condition that occurs when a part of the intestine or abdominal lining protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button. This condition can affect people of all ages but is most commonly seen in infants and young children. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of umbilical hernia, its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.

What is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia is a bulge near the belly button caused by intestines, abdominal lining, or fluid pushing through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. It often results from the incomplete closure of the belly button’s muscle ring after birth and may become more visible during coughing, straining, or physical activity.

Umbilical Hernia Symptoms

The symptoms of an umbilical hernia can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Some common signs and symptoms include:

• A visible, soft lump or bulge near the belly button that may become more prominent when the person coughs, cries, or strains
• Mild pain or discomfort in the abdominal area, especially during physical activity
• In infants, the bulge may appear larger when the baby sits up, cries, or strains and may become smaller or disappear when the baby is quiet and lying down
• In rare cases, the intestines can become trapped within the hernia, causing severe pain, a firm and red bulge, and potentially serious complications such as strangulation

If you notice any changes in the appearance of the hernia, such as tenderness, swelling, or discolouration, or if an infant becomes very fussy or shows signs of severe abdominal pain, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.

Umbilical Hernia Causes

An umbilical hernia occurs when the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the navel, often due to improper closure at birth or increased abdominal pressure.

In Children

• Failure of muscle closure around the navel (common in 20% of newborns).
• Premature birth or low birth weight.

In Adults

• Increased abdominal pressure from obesity, multiple pregnancies, or chronic coughing.
• Heavy lifting or straining.
• Weakness from previous abdominal surgery.
• Medical conditions like fluid buildup or long-term dialysis.

Certain factors can increase an individual’s risk of developing an umbilical hernia.

Risk Factors of Umbilical Hernia

Factors that increase the risk include:

• Age: Higher risk in infants, especially premature, and adults.
• Obesity: Excess weight raises the likelihood of hernias.
• Multiple pregnancies: Common in women carrying twins or more.
• Chronic coughing: Adds abdominal pressure, increasing risk.
• Ethnicity: Black infants are slightly more at risk.
• Gender: Women are more often affected than men.

Complications of Umbilical Hernia

While umbilical hernias are often harmless and resolve on their own, they can sometimes lead to serious complications if left untreated.

• Incarceration: Trapped tissue can cause pain and damage.
• Tissue Death: Restricted blood flow may lead to life-threatening infections.
• Blockage: Common in adults, often needing emergency surgery.
• Mortality Risk: High risk in severe cases, especially with underlying conditions.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these complications and ensure the best possible outcomes.

Diagnosis of Umbilical Hernia

Diagnosing an umbilical hernia involves assessing visible symptoms and confirming the condition with appropriate medical tests if needed.

• Physical Exam: The doctor checks for a bulge near the navel by examining and palpating the area.
• Imaging Studies: Ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to confirm the diagnosis or detect complications.

Treatment for Umbilical Hernia

Treatment options for umbilical hernias depend on the individual’s age, symptoms, and the severity of the condition.

• Observation in Children: Many umbilical hernias in children resolve naturally by age 4 or 5; persistent cases may require surgery.
• Surgery for Adults: Surgical repair is usually needed in adults to prevent complications.
• Emergency Surgery: Immediate intervention is required for incarcerated hernias or blockages.
• Post-Surgical Care: Proper aftercare ensures healing and reduces recurrence risk.

Prevention of Umbilical Hernia

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing an umbilical hernia:

• Maintain a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Use proper lifting techniques to avoid straining your abdomen.
• Strengthen core muscles through targeted exercises.
• Prevent constipation by eating high-fibre foods and staying hydrated.
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes to lower complication risks.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if you or your child notice a painless bulge near the belly button that worsens with coughing or straining. Seek immediate care if the hernia becomes painful or shows signs of obstruction, such as severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or discolouration. Early diagnosis prevents complications.

Conclusion

Umbilical hernias are common in both children and adults. Understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and seeking timely medical care can help manage the condition. While many children’s hernias resolve naturally, adults often need surgery. A healthy lifestyle with proper diet, exercise, and lifting techniques can reduce the risk. Early diagnosis and treatment ensure effective management and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

• https://www.facs.org/for-patients/the-day-of-your-surgery/pediatric-umbilical-hernia/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4605112/
• https://ijmscr.org/index.php/ijmscrs/article/view/1112
• https://www.statpearls.com/point-of-care/30753
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29083594/