What Causes an Umbilical Hernia, and How is it Treated?

A hernia, which occurs in 2-4% of the population, is a serious condition that can lower the quality of life, lead to job loss, and sometimes even pose a life-threatening risk.

A hernia, occurring in 2-4% of the population, is a serious disease that reduces the quality of life, causes job loss, and sometimes even becomes life-threatening. A hernia is defined as the protrusion of an organ from a weak spot in the area of the body where it normally resides, and it can develop either congenitally or later in life. The most common type of hernia is an inguinal hernia. Additionally, umbilical hernias, epigastric hernias, and, although rare, lateral and posterior abdominal wall hernias can also occur. In addition to these, internal organs like the stomach can also experience herniation.

What is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia, which protrudes from or near the belly button, can range in size from that of a walnut to an orange. This condition is more common in women than in men, and it typically occurs during pregnancy. Normally, the belly button is inward, but in the case of a hernia, a bulging structure forms outward. While it may disappear after pregnancy, it can also persist. Known as an abdominal hernia, the umbilical hernia is more common in people who engage in active sports.

What Causes an Umbilical Hernia?

The area where the umbilical hernia occurs is at the belly button, which is a weak spot where the umbilical cord, responsible for blood circulation between the mother and baby, enters the baby’s abdominal wall. Within a few days after birth, the umbilical cord falls off, and this area closes completely. If this area does not close properly during infancy, it can lead to the formation of an abdominal hernia in children. In adults, a sharp increase in intra-abdominal pressure causes an umbilical hernia. Factors such as excessive straining, excessive weight, being careless or quick while sitting, high pressure, excessive load on the lower back, heavy lifting, cirrhosis, constipation, prostate issues, and certain pregnancy-related problems are the main causes of umbilical hernia formation.

Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia

The most important symptom of an umbilical hernia is a bulge or deformity in the belly button area. Pressure and pain around the swollen area are also common hernia symptoms. The patient’s complaints typically increase with physical activity. The hernia usually involves the small intestine and intra-abdominal fat tissue. If the bulge cannot be pushed back in, and symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and constipation occur, it is considered an emergency. These signs indicate a disruption in circulation and tissue damage due to the organs protruding from the hernia opening. In such cases, the patient must undergo surgery without delay.

Treatment of Umbilical Hernia

The only treatment for an umbilical hernia is surgery. A growing umbilical hernia can lead to serious complications. Surgical intervention at an early stage significantly increases the success of the operation. Hernia treatment can be performed via open or laparoscopic surgery. Until the hernia surgery is performed, wearing a hernia belt may be recommended to reduce the patient's pain.

Last Updated Date: 19 June 2018

Publication Date: 19 June 2018