What is the cause of an Umbilical Hernia?
Umbilical Hernias can be acquired as the result of a repetitive or sudden injury, strain or pressure which causes the abdominal wall to weaken. However, umbilical hernias can also be since birth, otherwise known as congenital. In some cases, umbilical hernias are caused at birth by a weakness in the navel area where the umbilical cord left the infant and as a result, the umbilical ring never quite heals. What exactly prevents the umbilical ring from closing entirely is not known, though it is thought that many aspects affecting the developing fetus are involved. Umbilical hernias can be commonly found in infants, but can occur at any time in later adulthood.
As for children or infants, hernias may close slowly, possibly delaying surgery unless the hernia causes problems. Umbilical hernias which do not close or heal on their own may require surgery. In adults an umbilical hernia will not heal and go away and is often caused by sudden or repeated strain or stress on the abdominal muscles. As time passes, the hole or weakness increasingly grows larger allowing more abdominal contents to protrude, sometimes to the point that the hernia will distort the navel creating an “outie” instead of an “innie”. Umbilical hernias in adults can become problematic in that strangulation can occur and immediate medical attention may become necessary.
Signs and symptoms of an umbilical hernia vary for each individual, however, the primary symptom is often a small, soft bulge under or around the navel area. The bulge may be visible, or it may only be felt when pushed on. Sometimes the umbilical hernia is accompanied by pain, or a burning sensation, in the abdomen and may become more severe when lifting, coughing or sneezing. This area may also become swollen and may appear red or a gray-blue on the surface. It is possible to be able to push part of the bulge from the hernia back into the abdomen temporarily, but again, it will not heal or go away on its own and will eventually require surgery.
Resolution or Treatment
Understanding your unique situation and needs is first and foremost for us which is why we don’t perform one type of procedure on everyone, but rather choose methods best suited to you.
If you have (or think you may have an Umbilical Hernia) call us today to schedule your personalized consultation! 310.853.5147…it could be covered by your health insurance!
