Belly Button Hernia(Umbilical hernia):Causes and Treatment

A belly button hernia, also known as an umbilical hernia, can be an unexpected and sometimes worrisome diagnosis. If you’ve noticed a bulge around your navel or experienced discomfort in that area, you’re not alone. Umbilical hernias are relatively common, affecting both children and adults. But what exactly causes them? Are they dangerous? And more importantly, how are they treated? This article will discuss everything about belly button hernia, from its causes to its treatment.

What is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button (umbilicus). This results in a soft bulge or swelling around the navel, which may become more noticeable when you cough, strain, or stand up.

Umbilical hernias are especially common in newborns and young children, as the abdominal muscles around the umbilical cord don’t always close completely after birth.

However, adults can also develop umbilical hernias due to increased pressure on the abdomen, such as from obesity, pregnancy, or heavy lifting.

Belly Button Hernia
Belly Button Hernia(Umbilical Hernia): Causes&Treatment

Common Causes of Umbilical Hernia

Understanding the root causes of an umbilical hernia can help clarify why this condition develops and what risk factors to be aware of. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Incomplete Muscle Closure in Infants

In babies, an umbilical hernia occurs when the muscles around the umbilical cord don’t fully close after birth. This leaves a small hole through which part of the intestine can protrude.

Umbilical hernias in infants are quite common, especially in premature babies and those with low birth weight.

Most infant umbilical hernias are painless and pose no immediate health risk. The good news? The majority close on their own by the time the child is 3 to 5 years old.

2. Increased Abdominal Pressure in Adults

For adults, the development of an umbilical hernia is usually the result of increased pressure in the abdominal cavity. This pressure forces part of the intestine or fatty tissue through a weak spot near the belly button. Conditions that can contribute to this increased pressure include:

  • Obesity
  • Multiple pregnancies (especially close together)
  • Heavy lifting without proper form
  • Chronic coughing or straining due to constipation
  • Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites), often associated with liver disease

3. Surgical Incisions or Weak Abdominal Muscles

Sometimes, previous surgeries or injuries weaken the abdominal wall. This makes it easier for a hernia to develop. For example, if you’ve had abdominal surgery near the navel, the weakened area may later become prone to hernias.

4. Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a major risk factor for umbilical hernias in women due to the stretching and weakening of the abdominal muscles as the baby grows.

This is especially true in women who have had multiple pregnancies or who carry large babies. The good news is that these hernias are typically repairable, often during or after pregnancy.

Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia

Not all umbilical hernias cause noticeable symptoms, but there are some common signs you can look out for:

  • A soft bulge near the belly button: This bulge may increase in size when you cough, strain, or stand. It can often be pushed back in (reduced) when lying down, but it might pop back out when standing.
  • Pain or discomfort around the navel: Some people feel a mild ache or pressure, especially when bending over, lifting heavy objects, or after eating.
  • Changes in the size of the hernia: The hernia may become more noticeable over time or during activities that increase abdominal pressure.
  • Swelling and tenderness: In rare cases, the hernia can become trapped or strangulated, causing severe pain, tenderness, and even nausea or vomiting. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Diagnosing an Umbilical Hernia

If you notice a bulge near your belly button, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam to assess the size and severity of the hernia.

In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be ordered to get a better view of the hernia and rule out complications like obstruction or strangulation.

In infants, umbilical hernias are often diagnosed during routine check-ups and typically do not require immediate intervention unless they persist beyond the age of 5 or become problematic.

Treatment for Umbilical Hernias

Treatment for umbilical hernias largely depends on factors like the age of the patient, the size of the hernia, and the presence of symptoms. Let’s break down the options:

1. Watchful Waiting in Infants

In infants, most umbilical hernias close on their own as the child grows and the abdominal muscles strengthen. Your pediatrician may recommend a “wait-and-see” approach, especially if the hernia is small and does not cause any discomfort.

By the age of 3 to 5, many umbilical hernias resolve without the need for surgery. However, if the hernia persists beyond this age or grows larger, surgical repair may be recommended to avoid complications.

2. Surgical Repair in Adults

In adults, umbilical hernias rarely resolve on their own and often require surgical intervention to prevent complications like obstruction or strangulation.

The procedure is straightforward and typically involves pushing the protruding tissue back into place and reinforcing the abdominal wall to prevent future hernias.

Types of Surgery:
  • Open Surgery: The surgeon makes a small incision near the hernia, pushes the tissue back into place, and repairs the hole in the abdominal wall, often using stitches or a mesh patch for reinforcement.
  • Laparoscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive approach uses a few small incisions and special instruments to repair the hernia. Laparoscopic surgery typically offers a quicker recovery time and less scarring than open surgery.

Both procedures are relatively quick, often done as outpatient surgeries, meaning you can go home the same day. Recovery usually takes a few weeks, during which heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided.

3. Non-Surgical Management

In rare cases, especially when surgery is deemed too risky (for example, in elderly or frail patients), your doctor may recommend non-surgical management, such as wearing a hernia belt or binder to provide support and reduce discomfort. However, this is typically a temporary solution and doesn’t resolve the hernia itself.

Complications of Umbilical Hernia

While most umbilical hernias are harmless, there are potential complications you should be aware of:

1. Strangulation

This occurs when a part of the intestine gets trapped (incarcerated) in the hernia and loses its blood supply. Strangulation is a medical emergency, as it can lead to tissue death and severe infection (gangrene) if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of strangulation include:

  • Sudden, severe pain in the abdomen or around the hernia site.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Inability to push the hernia back in (it becomes hard or tender).
  • Redness or discoloration around the hernia.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

2. Infection

Though rare, infection can occur if the hernia becomes strangulated or if surgery is needed to repair the hernia. Signs of infection include fever, swelling, and increased pain or discharge from the surgical site.

3. Recurrence

Even after surgical repair, there’s a small chance that the hernia could recur. This is more common in people who are obese or who do not follow post-surgery guidelines regarding lifting and physical activity.

Prevention Tips: How to Reduce Your Risk of Developing an Umbilical Hernia

While not all umbilical hernias can be prevented, especially in infants, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk as an adult:

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor for hernias. By managing your weight through diet and exercise, you can reduce the strain on your abdominal muscles.
  • Lift properly: Always use proper lifting techniques to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your abdomen. If possible, avoid lifting heavy objects altogether.
  • Strengthen your core: Strong abdominal muscles can help support the wall of your abdomen and reduce the likelihood of a hernia.
  • Avoid straining: Whether it’s during bowel movements or while lifting, straining increases abdominal pressure and can contribute to hernia formation.

When should I see a doctor for an umbilical hernia?

You should see a doctor if you notice a bulge near your belly button, experience pain or discomfort, or if the hernia increases in size.

Seek immediate medical attention if the hernia becomes hard, and tender, or is accompanied by symptoms like severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or changes in skin color around the hernia, as these could be signs of strangulation.

FAQs

1. Who is at risk of developing an umbilical hernia?

Umbilical hernias are more common in:

  • Newborns and premature infants
  • Adults who are overweight or obese
  • Pregnant women, particularly those with multiple pregnancies
  • People who frequently lift heavy objects
  • Individuals with chronic coughing or straining, such as from constipation

2. Do umbilical hernias go away on their own?

In infants, many umbilical hernias close on their own by the age of 3 to 5. In adults, however, they rarely resolve without medical intervention and often require surgery, particularly if symptoms or complications develop.

3. Is an umbilical hernia dangerous?

Most umbilical hernias are not dangerous. However, complications like strangulation can occur, leading to a medical emergency that requires immediate surgery. It’s essential to monitor the hernia for any changes or symptoms like severe pain, nausea, or swelling that don’t go away.

4. What does umbilical hernia surgery involve?

Umbilical hernia surgery can be performed as either open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. The surgeon repairs the weakened area in the abdominal wall by either stitching it closed or reinforcing it with a mesh. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day.

5. What are the risks of not treating an umbilical hernia?

If left untreated, an umbilical hernia can increase in size and lead to complications such as incarceration (where the hernia becomes stuck and cannot be pushed back in) or strangulation (where the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off). Strangulation is a serious, life-threatening condition that requires emergency surgery.

6. Can I exercise with an umbilical hernia?

Light activities may be safe, but exercises that put pressure on your abdomen (like weightlifting or core workouts) can worsen the hernia.

Always consult your doctor before engaging in any physical activity with a hernia. After surgery, you’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks to allow proper healing.

7. Can an umbilical hernia come back after surgery?

While surgery is highly effective, there is a small chance that the hernia could recur, especially in people who are overweight, pregnant, or do not follow post-surgery guidelines.

Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and taking care of your abdominal muscles can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

8. How long is the recovery time after umbilical hernia surgery?

Recovery from umbilical hernia surgery typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, it’s important to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and any activity that puts pressure on your abdomen. Your doctor will provide specific guidelines for a safe and smooth recovery.