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Umbilical Hernias: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Outlook

An umbilical hernia is a common condition that occurs when part of the intestines protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button. This condition is most often seen in babies, but adults can also develop umbilical hernias. In this article, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and outlook for umbilical hernias.

What Causes Umbilical Hernias?

In babies, umbilical hernias form when the small hole in the abdominal muscles that allows the umbilical cord to pass through doesn't close properly after birth. This leaves a gap where intestines and fluid can poke through, causing a bulge or swelling around the belly button.

Adults can develop umbilical hernias due to increased abdominal pressure caused by factors such as:

  • Chronic coughing

  • Excess abdominal fluid

  • Difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate

  • Constipation

  • Obesity

  • Straining during childbirth or weightlifting

Recognizing the Symptoms of Umbilical Hernias

The most noticeable symptom of an umbilical hernia is a visible bulge or swelling around the belly button, which may be more prominent when the baby cries, coughs, or strains during a bowel movement. In adults, the hernia may be visible or only detectable by touch.

Most umbilical hernias are not painful. However, if the intestine becomes trapped in the hernia (incarcerated hernia), you may notice:

  • Pain around the belly button

  • Swelling and discoloration in the area

  • Vomiting

If you observe any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing Umbilical Hernias

A doctor can typically diagnose an umbilical hernia through a physical examination, during which they will feel and visually inspect the area around the belly button. They may also ask about your symptom history and attempt to gently push the hernia back into the abdomen.

In some cases, a CT scan may be recommended to check for complications.

Treatment Options for Umbilical Hernias

Most umbilical hernias in babies do not require treatment, as they often close on their own by the age of 4 or 5. Even if the hernia doesn't completely close, it typically becomes smaller over time, making future surgery easier.

Surgery may be recommended if the hernia is:

  • Painful

  • Larger than 1/2 to 3/4 inch

  • Large and doesn't decrease in size during the first 2 years of life

  • Trapped or blocking the intestines

The surgical procedure, performed under anesthesia, involves making a small incision below the belly button, returning any protruding intestine to its proper position, and closing the hernia with stitches. The skin beneath the navel is then sewn to create an "innie" appearance, and the incision is sealed with surgical glue.

Recovery and Outlook After Umbilical Hernia Surgery

Following surgery, most children and adults can return home the same day. Over-the-counter pain medication may help manage discomfort during recovery. A follow-up visit with the doctor is typically scheduled 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure.

Contact your doctor immediately if you or your child experience:

  • Fever

  • Redness, swelling, or pain near the incision site

  • A bulge near the navel

  • Blood or foul-smelling discharge from the incision

  • Persistent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation

Most people require 3 to 5 days of rest and should avoid lifting heavy objects for about 3 weeks after surgery. Once an umbilical hernia is resolved, either naturally or through surgery, it is unlikely to recur.

For more information on umbilical hernias, consult the following reputable sources:

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