Umbilical Hernia

What is Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia occurs when structures that normally are found in the abdomen, protrude through an opening in the abdominal muscles near the belly button (umbilicus).

Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia

Symptoms of an umbilical hernia include:

A noticeable bulge or swelling near the belly button, which may become more apparent when the individual is crying, coughing, or straining.
Pain or discomfort in the affected area, especially when lifting heavy objects or bending over.
In severe cases, nausea and vomiting may occur if the hernia becomes incarcerated (trapped) or strangulated (cut off from blood supply).

Causes of Umbilical Hernia

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. Imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan may be used to assess the hernia’s size and to rule out other conditions.

How is Umbilical Hernia Repaired?

Surgical Repair

Umbilical hernia repair, is a common surgical procedure that usually involves a enteral anaesthetic but in specific circumstances can be done under local anaesthetic.

An incision is made usually over the hernia site. The hernia is then freed from the abdominal wall muscles and its contents inspected and if normal returned in the abdomen. Depending on the size of the defect then the surgeon will decide whether the will close/repair the defect with sutures only or whether they will need to insert a mesh to re enforce the repair and reduce the rate of recurrence. The procedure usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes and can often be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day.

Recovery

Recovery from umbilical hernia surgery typically involves:

Resting and avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks.
Managing pain with prescribed medications.
Monitoring the incision site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
Gradually resuming normal activities as recommended by the healthcare provider.

Prevention

While not all umbilical hernias can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes may reduce the risk, such as:

Maintaining a healthy weight.
Avoiding heavy lifting and straining.
Treating chronic coughs and constipation promptly.

Conclusion

Umbilical hernias are a common condition that can affect individuals of all ages. While often harmless in infants, they can cause discomfort and complications in adults, necessitating surgical repair. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help individuals seek timely medical care and improve their quality of life.

For more detailed information on umbilical hernia repair or to schedule a consultation, please contact our team today.

Basingstoke Colorectal & Peritoneal
The Hampshire Clinic
Basing Road
Basingstoke RG24 7AL

Call us

01256 354747