An umbilical hernia in children is a small bulge in the navel area that is noticeable especially when coughing or crying and disappears when relaxed.
Although it may be a concern for parents, most cases are minor and disappear on their own as the child grows. In some cases, medical follow-up and surgical intervention are required if the hernia persists or complications develop.
What is an umbilical hernia in children
An umbilical hernia in children is the protrusion of a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue through a small opening in the abdominal wall muscles in the navel area.
This protrusion often appears as a round, soft bulge under the skin of the navel. It becomes more noticeable when the child cries, coughs, or strains during a bowel movement, while it decreases in size when sleeping or relaxing.
Causes of an umbilical hernia in children
An umbilical hernia occurs due to pressure from the abdominal muscles on a weak part of the abdominal muscles. However, there are factors that contribute to its development, including:
- Obesity.
- Chronic coughing.
- Persistent constipation.
- Premature birth.
- Excessive and frequent crying.
- Low birth weight.
- Natural weakness of the abdominal wall muscles at birth.
What are the symptoms of an umbilical hernia in children
An umbilical hernia in children may not show any symptoms and may not cause pain or discomfort for the child. However, if symptoms do occur, they may include:
- A soft bulge that can be pushed inward.
- This bulge may harden and cause pain.
- A bulge or protrusion in the navel area with crying and coughing.
Complications of an umbilical hernia in children
Complications of an umbilical hernia in children are rare, but if they do occur, it is best to see a doctor immediately:
- Strangulation of the hernia.
- Incarceration of the hernia.
- Vomiting and loss of appetite.
- Sudden severe abdominal pain.
- The color of the hernia changes to red or blue.
- The hernia hardens and is painful for the child.
How is an umbilical hernia diagnosed in a child
A pediatrician or surgeon can diagnose an umbilical hernia solely through a clinical examination. A bulge in the navel area is observed when the child cries or coughs.
Usually, the doctor may not need to perform x-rays or other tests unless complications appear or the doctor suspects the presence of other problems in the abdominal wall.
Umbilical Hernia Treatment Methods for Children
Most umbilical hernias in children resolve spontaneously as the child grows and the abdominal muscles become stronger. However, the doctor may resort to surgery if the hernia persists after the child's fifth birthday.
Or in other cases, such as the appearance of hernia complications or if the hernia is large and increases over time. The surgery is simple, and then the abdominal wall opening is sutured to prevent the hernia from recurring.
Preventing Umbilical Hernias in Children
There is no specific method for preventing umbilical hernias in children, as they are often congenital. However, there are some tips to reduce the risk of developing them:
- Prevent constipation.
- Treat chronic coughing in children.
- Regular follow-up with a doctor to ensure reassurance.
Do umbilical hernias affect infants
Yes, they are very common in infants and appear after the umbilical cord falls off in the first weeks or months. The main cause is weak abdominal wall muscles at birth.
When does an umbilical hernia disappear in a child
Most umbilical hernias in children disappear spontaneously as the child grows and the abdominal muscles become stronger. They close completely between the ages of 3 and 5 years.
Summary of Umbilical Hernias in Children
Umbilical hernias are common in children and infants. They appear as a bulge in the navel area due to weak abdominal wall muscles. They disappear spontaneously as the child grows.
However, in some cases, they may persist or complications may occur that require surgical intervention. Therefore, it is essential to follow up with a doctor for reassurance and to avoid complications.