Hernia, Umbilical
Hernia, Umbilical Causes
In adults, too much abdominal pressure can result to an umbilical hernia. Possible culprits include: obesity, heavy lifting, coughing, multiple pregnancies, fluid in the abdominal cavity (ascites).
Hernia, Umbilical Definition
Umbilical hernia is a congenital malformation, particularly common in infants of African descent, and more frequent in boys.
Hernia, Umbilical Diagnosis
An umbilical hernia is diagnosed using a physical exam. Sometimes blood tests or imaging studies ? such as an abdominal ultrasound or X-ray ? are performed to screen for complications.
Hernia, Umbilical Symptoms and Signs
An umbilical hernia develops a soft swelling or bulge near the navel (umbilicus). The bulge may vary from less than one-half inch to about 2 inches (about 1 to 5 centimeters) in diameter. If the baby has an umbilical hernia, you may notice the bulge only when he or she cries, coughs or strains. The bulge may disappear when the baby is calm or lies on his or her back.
Hernia, Umbilical Treatment
An umbilical hernia can be fixed in 2 different ways. The surgeon can choose to stitch the walls of the abdominal or he/she can place mesh over the opening and stitch it to the abdominal walls. The latter is of a stronger hold and is frequently used for larger tears in the abdominal wall. Most surgeons will fix the hernia 6 weeks after the baby is born.