An umbilical hernia occurs when a weakness in the abdominal wall around the belly button allows internal organs to protrude, resulting in a noticeable bulge. This type of hernia can appear immediately after birth or develop in adults due to various factors.
Symptoms include swelling or a bulge around the belly button, which may cause pain or discomfort, especially when activities increase abdominal pressure, like coughing or heavy lifting. These symptoms may diminish when resting.
In adults, umbilical hernias are often caused by factors that increase abdominal pressure, such as obesity, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or pregnancy. Treatment usually requires surgical repair of the abdominal wall defect.
In infants, umbilical hernias result from incomplete closure of the abdominal wall where the umbilical cord attached. Most resolve on their own within 1-2 years, but larger or persistent hernias may require surgery.
Surgical intervention is typically necessary, especially for larger hernias or those causing symptoms. The hernia defect is repaired using either open or laparoscopic techniques, often reinforced with mesh.
Umbilical hernias in infants often close spontaneously, but in adults, they usually do not heal without surgical intervention and may worsen over time.
If left untreated, an umbilical hernia may grow, causing increased pain and potentially leading to complications like strangulation, where blood flow to the trapped organs is compromised, necessitating emergency care.
While umbilical hernias are typically not dangerous in children, untreated hernias in adults can lead to severe complications, including infection and bowel obstruction, requiring urgent medical attention.
Patients should consult a general surgeon for evaluation and treatment options. Avoiding activities that increase abdominal pressure is crucial until surgery can be scheduled.
Pain is usually localized around the belly button but may radiate to other abdominal areas, especially with activities that increase abdominal pressure.
While an umbilical hernia does not directly cause gas, trapped intestines within the hernia can lead to gas-related discomfort, requiring medical evaluation.
Yes, pressing on an umbilical hernia typically causes pain due to the pressure on the protruding organs.
A general surgeon is the appropriate specialist for diagnosing and treating umbilical hernias.
A "popped" umbilical hernia refers to strangulation, which can lead to severe complications such as organ death if blood flow is cut off.
Consulting a general surgeon is essential for managing an umbilical hernia. Avoid heavy lifting, control weight, and refrain from activities that increase abdominal pressure to minimize symptoms until surgery.
Yes, an umbilical hernia can lead to nausea, especially if trapped intestines cause bowel obstruction.
Yes, increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can cause existing hernias to grow or new ones to develop. Consultation with a general surgeon is recommended for management.
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Prof. Dr. Sezai AydınGeneral Surgery Turkey
PROF. DR. SEZAI AYDIN
