An umbilical hernia is a condition that occurs when the abdominal wall surrounding the navel (belly button) is not completely closed. This results in a small sac of tissue, called an abdominal sac, protruding through the opening. The sac may contain some of the intestines, fatty tissue, or fluid. Most umbilical hernias are benign (non-cancerous) and cause no symptoms. However, some may cause pain or discomfort, especially when coughing, straining during a bowel movement, or lifting heavy objects. In rare cases, an umbilical hernia can become strangulated, meaning the blood reaching the protruding intestine is cut off. This type of medical emergency requires immediate surgery. If you have an umbilical hernia, you may be wondering what caused it and whether or not it will go away on its own. Read on to learn more about this condition, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is an Umbilical Hernia?
An umbilical hernia is a condition that occurs when the opening in the abdominal muscles that surrounds the navel does not close completely. This can cause a bulge at the navel, which may be more noticeable when you cough or strain. Umbilical hernias can be seen in both infants and adults.
Most umbilical hernias are not painful and do not show any other symptoms. However, if the hernia becomes large or incarcerated (trapped), it can cause pain or other problems. Treatment is usually not necessary unless the hernia is causing pain or other symptoms. Surgery is important to treat the hernia.
What are the possible Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia?
There are several symptoms of an umbilical hernia, the most common of which is a bulge around the navel. This lump may be painless or cause discomfort when one is coughing or straining. Other symptoms can include:
- 1. Redness or swelling in the area around the navel
- 2. Tenderness when touching the area
- 3. Pain or burning with urination
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as possible to rule out other potential causes and to determine whether surgery is necessary.
What causes Umbilical Hernias?
There are many possible causes of umbilical hernias. Some people are born with them, while others may develop them later in life. In most cases, the specific is unknown. However, there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing an umbilical hernia. These include:
- 1. Being born with a defect in the abdominal wall
- 2. Having a family history of umbilical hernias
- 3. Being overweight or obese
- 4. Pregnancy
- 5. Chronic coughing or sneezing
- 6. Lifting heavy objects
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Umbilical hernias are highly common in infants/ young children. This is because their abdominal muscles are not fully developed and can be more easily stretched or weakened. However, adults can also develop umbilical hernias, especially if they are overweight or obese.
How are umbilical hernias treated?
Umbilical hernias are mostly treated with laparoscopic surgery. The surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, which means that one can go home the same day.
During the surgery, the surgeon will make a small incision in your belly button and push the hernia back into place. They will then sew up the hole in your abdominal wall using dissolvable stitches. Wires meshes are also used for the same.
Most people can recover from umbilical hernia surgery. However, like with any surgery, there is always a risk of infection or other complications. That’s why it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for care after the surgery.
Are there any complications associated with umbilical hernias?
There are a few potential complications associated with umbilical hernias, though they are relatively uncommon. If the hernia becomes strangulated, meaning the blood will not reach the tissue, it can become very painful and cause the tissue to die. This type of medical emergency may require proper attention. Another potential complication is an infection in the hernia sac. This is also rare but can occur if the sac becomes filled with pus or other fluids. Treatment for an infected hernia usually involves antibiotics.
Conclusion
There are a number of different ways to treat an umbilical hernia, but the most important thing is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you think you or your child may have an umbilical hernia, contact your doctor right away. With prompt treatment, most people with umbilical hernias make a full recovery and experience no long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 What are the major benefits of laparoscopic surgery?
A- The major benefits of laparoscopic surgery are as follows.
- 1. Faster healing
- 2. Minimally invasion
- 3. Not so painful
- 5. Minimal external scars
- 5. Same day discharge
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Q.2 Is Hernia surgery covered under insurance?
A – Yes, Hernia treatment is covered under the insurance. You can contact your healthcare provider for further details.
Q.3 What are the symptoms of hernia in men?
A – The symptoms of the hernia in men are as follow
- 1. Bulging in the affected area
- 2. Pain in groin
- 3. Discomfort
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Q.4 What are the ways to diagnose an Umbilical hernia?
- A – The umbilical hernia can be diagnosed by physical examination or imaging techniques like a CT scan/ MRI.
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