Umbilical Hernia

What is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia occurs when a part of the intestine, or fatty tissue, pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button (umbilicus). This can create a noticeable bulge, which may become more prominent when you laugh, cough, or strain. While umbilical hernias are common in infants and often resolve on their own, in adults, surgery is usually needed to repair the hernia and prevent potential complications.

Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia

Umbilical hernias in adults can develop due to several factors, including:

Weakness in the abdominal muscles: near the belly button.

Increased abdominal pressure: due to obesity, pregnancy, or heavy lifting.

Chronic coughing or straining: due to constipation.

Previous abdominal surgery: may also contribute to the development of an umbilical hernia.

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes of umbilical hernias can vary and include several contributing factors:

Weakness in the abdominal muscles: near the belly button, either from birth or developed over time.

Increased abdominal pressure: due to obesity, pregnancy, or heavy lifting.

Chronic coughing or straining: from conditions such as persistent cough or constipation.

Previous abdominal surgery: which can weaken the abdominal wall and increase the risk of a hernia.

Diagnosing an Umbilical Hernia

Umbilical hernias are usually diagnosed through a physical examination. Your doctor will examine the area around your navel and may ask you to stand, cough, or strain to make the hernia more visible. In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be ordered to assess the size and severity of the hernia, especially in adults.

Treatments for an Umbilical Hernia

Surgical Repair: Surgery is often recommended for umbilical hernias in adults or older children, especially if the hernia is large, painful, or at risk of complications.

What Happens If Left Untreated?

If left untreated, umbilical hernias can grow larger and become more painful over time. There is also a risk that the hernia could become incarcerated (trapped), cutting off blood supply to the intestines or tissue. This can lead to strangulation, a serious complication that requires emergency surgery to prevent tissue death and infection. Prompt treatment is recommended to avoid these risks.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or your child has an umbilical hernia, or you have noticed a bulge near your belly button, Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics can provide expert diagnosis and treatment options. Our experienced team offers both open and minimally invasive surgical repairs to help you recover and prevent complications. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options.

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