Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia
- Swelling or a bulge around the belly button
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Straining during bowel movements
Causes of Umbilical Hernia
During pregnancy, the umbilical cord passes through a small opening in the baby’s abdominal muscles. This opening normally closes shortly after birth. If the abdominal muscles do not fully come together along the midline of the abdominal wall, an umbilical hernia may occur at birth or later in life. In adults, conditions that increase pressure inside the abdomen contribute to umbilical hernias. Causes of umbilical hernia include:
- Obesity
- Multiple pregnancies
- Previous abdominal surgery
- Fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites)
- Long-term peritoneal dialysis for kidney failure
- Chronic cough
- Chronic constipation
Diagnosis of Umbilical Hernia
Umbilical hernia is usually diagnosed easily with a physical examination. Sometimes, an abdominal ultrasound or a computed tomography (CT) scan may be requested to investigate possible complications.
Treatment of Umbilical Hernia
Treatment of an umbilical hernia is performed surgically. If the opening in the abdominal wall is not large, repair may be done with stitches alone. If the opening is large or if there is a recurrent umbilical hernia, a synthetic mesh may be used for reinforcement.
Umbilical hernia surgery can be performed with an open technique or with a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) approach.
Although many patients may neglect an umbilical hernia, it can become life-threatening due to potential complications (possible adverse outcomes) if the hernia becomes incarcerated or strangulated.
Umbilical Hernia FAQ
Can babies have an umbilical hernia?
Yes. Umbilical hernias are common in babies, and in most cases they close on their own by around age two.
How can you tell if you have an umbilical hernia?
It can usually be recognized by a visible swelling or bulge at or around the belly button.
Is an umbilical hernia dangerous?
If the hernia is large, the risk of incarceration/strangulation increases. Because it can lead to serious complications, it should be evaluated and treated promptly once noticed.
Is surgery necessary for an umbilical hernia?
Like other types of hernias, an umbilical hernia can only be permanently corrected with surgery.
How is an umbilical hernia treated?
Treatment can be performed with an open or laparoscopic (minimally invasive) approach. The herniated tissue is returned to the abdomen and the abdominal wall defect is repaired.
