An umbilical hernia in children occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through an opening in the abdominal muscles near the navel.
Important Information About Umbilical Hernia in Children
Umbilical hernias are very common among children but can also occur in adults, although less frequently. In most cases, it is not considered a serious condition.
Umbilical hernias in infants are noticeable, especially when a bulge appears near the navel during crying. This is one of the main indicators of an umbilical hernia.
Most umbilical hernias in children close spontaneously within the first two years of life. However, in some cases, the hernia may persist until the child turns five, potentially requiring surgical repair at that point.
Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia in Children
Key observations regarding symptoms of umbilical hernia in children include:
Umbilical hernias cause swelling or a bulge near the navel, which is often noticeable during crying, coughing, or straining.
Typically, umbilical hernias are painless in children. However, if they persist into adulthood, they may cause abdominal pain.
A doctor’s visit is necessary if any of the following symptoms appear, indicating a potential umbilical hernia:
Abdominal pain.
Vomiting.
Pain when touching the hernia.
Swelling and discoloration of the affected area.
Prompt medical attention is crucial to diagnose and treat the condition to prevent potential complications.
Causes and Risk Factors of Umbilical Hernia in Children
Key notes regarding the causes and risk factors include:
During pregnancy, the umbilical cord passes through a small opening in the abdominal muscles of the fetus. After birth, this opening usually closes spontaneously. An umbilical hernia occurs if the muscles fail to close completely.
Umbilical hernias are more common in infants with low birth weight and occur equally in both genders. However, black children seem to have a higher risk of developing umbilical hernias.
Intense abdominal pressure can contribute to umbilical hernia development in cases of obesity, abdominal fluid buildup, prior abdominal surgery, or kidney failure.
Complications of Umbilical Hernia in Children
Although complications from umbilical hernias in children are rare, the following may occur:
Tissue incarceration: Protruding abdominal tissues become trapped, preventing their return to the abdominal cavity. This leads to reduced blood flow, causing abdominal pain and tissue damage.
Tissue strangulation: A complete loss of blood flow to the trapped tissue can result in necrosis. In some cases, infection may spread throughout the abdominal cavity, creating a life-threatening condition.
Adults with umbilical hernias are at higher risk of intestinal obstruction compared to children, necessitating immediate surgical intervention.
Diagnosis of Umbilical Hernia in Children
Umbilical hernias in children are usually diagnosed through a physical examination. In certain cases, imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans may be performed to check for potential complications.
Treatment of Umbilical Hernia in Children
Key points about treatment include:
Most umbilical hernias in children close on their own by the age of 1 or 2. During physical exams, doctors may gently push the hernia back into place, but parents are advised not to attempt this on their own.
It is falsely believed that applying a coin to the hernia can help treat it. However, this practice is discouraged as it may introduce infections to the affected area.
Surgical intervention may be required in specific cases, such as:
Severe pain in the hernia area.
Persistent bulge that does not decrease by the age of 2 or 3.
Hernia persisting beyond the age of 5.
Incarceration of herniated tissues.
Surgery is recommended to prevent potential complications. It involves making a small incision near the navel, returning the protruding tissue to the abdominal cavity, and stitching the abdominal wall to close the opening.
Prevention of Umbilical Hernia in Children
Although no definitive methods exist to prevent umbilical hernias in children, the following measures may reduce the risk:
Maintaining a healthy body weight through proper diet and regular exercise.
Consuming sufficient fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to prevent constipation.
Avoiding lifting heavy objects beyond one’s capacity.
Consulting a doctor in cases of persistent coughing or sneezing.