Umbilical Hernia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and treatment
What is an Umbilical Hernia
An umbilical hernia happens when a portion of the intestine, fat, or fluid passes through the umbilicus, a weak area in the abdominal muscles, close to the belly button. When coughing, sobbing, or straining, this causes a prominent protrusion or swelling that may become more obvious.
Although they can happen to adults, especially in women who have had several pregnancies, those who are overweight, or those who often handle large objects, umbilical hernias are more common in children, especially those delivered preterm.
Causes of Umbilical Hernia
In infants:
The umbilical cord travels through a tiny hole in the abdominal muscles during foetal development. This hole often closes soon after birth. If not, a little opening can still exist, allowing the contents of the abdomen to protrude and create a hernia.
Infant risk factors:
- Early birth
- Low birth weight
- African heritage
- Hernia history in the family
In adults:
A hernia in adults can result from weakening of the muscles surrounding the navel due to increased strain on the abdominal wall.
Typical risk factors for adults consist of:
- Being overweight
- Pregnancy, particularly twin or multiple pregnancies
- Surgery on the abdomen
- Constipation or a persistent cough
- Heavy lifting or physically demanding tasks
Symptoms:
A protrusion
close to the belly button is the most obvious sign of an umbilical hernia. This
protrusion might be more noticeable if the individual is:
- Weeping (in babies)
- Coughing
- Having a good laugh
- Lifting a heavy object
- Straining when having a bowel movement
- Little abdominal tightness or discomfort
- Hernia site pain (more prevalent in adulthood)
- A sensation of bloating or fullness
Diagnosis:
A physical
examination by a physician is typically required to diagnose an umbilical
hernia. Sometimes, imaging tests like:
- Ultrasonography (ultrasound)
- X-ray
- CT scan
Treatments:
In babies
By the time a baby is one or two years old, the majority of umbilical hernias heal on their own. Generally speaking, surgery is only considered if:- After the ages of two to four, the hernia is substantial or growing.
- It results in discomfort or pain.
- Complications are evident.
In adults:
Adult umbilical hernias usually require surgery to resolve, unlike those in infants. Among the most popular surgical techniques are:1. Repairing an open hernia
- A little cut is done close to the navel.
- It pushes the protruding tissue back in.
- The abdominal wall is strengthened with mesh or stitched.
2. Repairing Hernias Laparoscopically
- Minimally invasive surgery with tiny instruments and a camera.
- Lesser scars and a quicker recovery than with open surgery.
Although recovery times vary, they usually take a few weeks. Although heavy lifting should be avoided during this time, most people can resume their regular activities in two to four weeks.
Is it possible to prevent umbilical hernias?
Even though some hernias, particularly those brought on by congenital conditions, cannot be avoided, you can lower your risk by:- Keeping a healthy weight
- Learning safe lifting practices or avoiding heavy lifting
- Consuming a diet high in fibre to avoid constipation
- Taking quick care of chronic coughs
- Enhancing abdominal muscle strength (under expert supervision)
Living with an Umbilical Hernia
Your doctor might advise watchful waiting if your hernia is tiny and symptomless. Monitoring any changes might be aided by routine examinations. However, surgery is typically the best course of action if it starts to grow or gets painful.It's crucial to adhere to post-operative instructions following surgical repair:
- Eat a balanced diet to avoid stress.
- Keep an eye out for infection symptoms, such as redness, fever, or discharge.
- Keep your follow-up appointments.
Food eats after Umbilical Hernia surgery
Foods High in Fibre
To avoid straining and constipation:
- Green beans, broccoli, spinach, and carrots
- Fruits: papaya, pears, bananas, and apples
- Whole grains: whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oats
- Legumes: black beans, chickpeas, and lentils
Lean Protein
- For the recovery and repair of tissue:
- Fish, eggs, or poultry that has been grilled or boiled
- Low-fat dairy products include milk, yoghurt, and paneer (cottage cheese).
- Plant proteins include soy, dal (lentils), and tofu.
Good Fats Promote Energy and Healing:
- Moderate use of ghee and olive oil
- Almonds, flaxseeds, and other nuts and seeds
- Avocados
Fluids
- To maintain proper hydration and facilitate easy digestion:
- Water (at least eight to ten glasses per day)
- Water from coconuts
- Clear soups
- Teas made with herbs
Foods Not to Eat
- These may result in constipation, bloating, or gas:
- Oily and spicy cuisines
- processed foods (packaged snacks, chips, etc.)
- The difficult-to-digest red flesh
- Drinks with carbonation (may induce bloating)
- Alcohol and caffeine
- Low-fiber foods, such as sweets and white bread