What is an Umbilical Hernia?

Umbilical hernia, also known as hernia umbilicalis, is a type of abdominal wall hernia where there is a protrusion near the navel (umbilicus), usually due to a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the navel. The result is a swelling or bulge in the navel area, which can become more prominent with exertion, coughing, or straining. The diagnosis of an umbilical hernia is usually made by a doctor during a physical examination. In some cases, additional imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be required.

Causes of an Umbilical Hernia

Umbilical Hernia in Babies and Young Children

Hernia umbilicalis is quite common in babies and young children. The following causes can contribute to the development of an umbilical hernia in children:

• Incomplete closure of the umbilical cord: At birth, the umbilical cord usually closes completely, but sometimes a small opening remains. This can lead to a weak spot in the abdominal wall around the navel, causing an umbilical hernia.
• Genetic predisposition: Some babies and children may have a genetic predisposition to weakness in the abdominal wall, making them more susceptible to developing a hernia umbilicalis.
• Excessive pressure in the abdominal cavity: During fetal development and childbirth, there may be increased pressure in the abdominal cavity. This can contribute to the development of an umbilical hernia, especially if a weak spot is already present.
• Prematurity: Babies born prematurely may have a weaker abdominal wall because they did not have the full time to develop in the womb. This can increase the risk of an umbilical hernia.
• Constipation and straining: In older children who are toilet-trained, regular straining due to constipation can cause increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, contributing to the development of an umbilical hernia.

Umbilical Hernia in Adults

Just like in children, umbilical hernias can also develop in adults. Below are common causes of umbilical hernia in adults:

• Heavy lifting: Repeated or regular heavy lifting can put pressure on the abdominal wall and contribute to the development of hernia umbilicalis, especially if the technique is incorrect or if the person already has a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
• Obesity: Being overweight can increase pressure in the abdominal cavity and strain the abdominal wall, increasing the risk of an umbilical hernia.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the growing uterus can put pressure on the abdominal wall, increasing the risk of developing an umbilical hernia, especially in women who already have a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
• Previous abdominal surgery: If someone has previously undergone abdominal surgery, such as for appendicitis or a cesarean section, scar tissue can weaken the abdominal wall and increase the risk of an umbilical hernia.
• Chronic cough or constipation: Chronic cough, as in smokers or people with chronic lung diseases, or chronic constipation can increase pressure in the abdominal cavity and contribute to the development of hernia umbilicalis.
• Age: As people age, the abdominal wall can naturally weaken, increasing the risk of an umbilical hernia.

Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia

The symptoms of an umbilical hernia can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Visible swelling or bulge: The most common symptom of an umbilical hernia is a visible swelling or bulge in the navel area. This swelling can vary in size and may become more noticeable during activities that exert pressure on the abdomen, such as coughing, straining, or lifting.
• Pain or discomfort: Some people experience pain or discomfort around the navel area, especially during exertion or when touching the swelling. The pain can vary from mild to severe and can be constant or intermittent.
• Nausea and vomiting: If the protrusion of the peritoneum or intestines becomes trapped and impedes blood flow, it can lead to nausea and vomiting. This indicates a potential complication called a strangulated hernia, which requires immediate medical attention.

Treatment of an Umbilical Hernia

Treatment of Umbilical Hernia in Children and Babies

In children, an umbilical hernia usually resolves on its own, and no further treatment is needed. However, an umbilical hernia in children and babies can be treated conservatively, especially if it is a small hernia. For example, using a special bandage or an umbilical hernia band. An umbilical hernia band helps to reduce pressure on the abdominal wall and support the hernia, giving the body a chance to heal the hernia naturally.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary, especially if the hernia is large or if complications arise.

Treatment of Umbilical Hernia in Adults

If an umbilical hernia in adults causes symptoms, treatment is usually necessary. Small openings in the abdominal wall can be simply stitched, while larger openings may require the placement of a synthetic mesh during surgery to reinforce the abdominal wall. After surgery, wearing an umbilical hernia band can help provide the right support and protection, promoting recovery.

Benefits of Wearing an Umbilical Hernia Band

Wearing an umbilical hernia band can offer several benefits for people suffering from an umbilical hernia:

• Support and compression: An umbilical hernia band provides support and compression around the navel area, which can reduce the protrusion of the peritoneum or intestines. This can help reduce the size of the hernia and relieve pressure on the affected area.
• Pain relief: The support and compression provided by the umbilical hernia band can help reduce pain and discomfort in the navel area. This can be especially useful during activities that exert pressure on the abdomen, such as coughing, lifting, or straining.
• Improved mobility: Wearing an umbilical hernia band can help people maintain or improve their mobility, even if they suffer from an umbilical hernia. By stabilizing and supporting the hernia, the band can make it easier to perform daily activities without excessive pain or discomfort.
• Prevention of complications: In some cases, wearing an umbilical hernia band can help prevent complications such as strangulation of the tissue. By supporting and stabilizing the hernia, the band can help prevent the protrusion from becoming trapped and cutting off blood flow, which can cause a serious medical emergency.
• Support during recovery after surgery: If a person has undergone surgery to repair an umbilical hernia, wearing an umbilical hernia band during the recovery process can help support and accelerate the healing process. The band can help protect and stabilize the operated areas, promoting recovery.

What should you avoid with an umbilical hernia?

With an umbilical hernia, it is important to avoid certain activities and actions to reduce the risk of complications and promote recovery. Here are some things you should generally avoid if you have an umbilical hernia:

1. Heavy lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects, as this can exert extra pressure on the abdominal wall and worsen the umbilical hernia or delay recovery.
2. Intensive physical activities: Avoid activities that require a lot of exertion or straining, such as intense sports, lifting weights, or heavy physical labor.
3. Tight clothing: Avoid wearing tight clothing that puts pressure on the abdominal wall and navel area.
4. Excessive coughing or sneezing: Try to minimize coughing and sneezing,as this can exert extra pressure on the abdominal wall. If necessary, a cough suppressant may be prescribed by a doctor.
5. Prevent constipation: Ensure a high-fiber diet and adequate fluid intake to prevent constipation, as straining during bowel movements can exert extra pressure on the abdominal wall.

How painful is an umbilical hernia?

The degree of pain experienced with an umbilical hernia can vary from person to person and depends on various factors, including the size of the hernia, whether there is strangulation of the tissue, the person’s sensitivity, and other individual health factors. Generally, an umbilical hernia can range from mild discomfort to intense pain, depending on the circumstances.

Here are some possible scenarios regarding pain with an umbilical hernia:

• Mild pain: Some people may only experience mild, sporadic pain or discomfort around the navel, especially during certain activities such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting. This pain can be tolerable and does not significantly interfere with daily activities.
• Moderate pain: For others, the pain may be more moderate, with more consistent pain around the navel or a feeling of pressure or discomfort. This can somewhat affect daily functioning but is generally still manageable.
• Severe pain: In some cases, an umbilical hernia can cause severe pain, especially if there is strangulation of the tissue. Strangulation can result in intense, persistent pain that does not respond to pain medication. This can be a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
• Psychological stress: In addition to physical pain, an umbilical hernia can also cause psychological stress, especially if the hernia is visible and affects a person’s self-image.

Which Umbilical Hernia Band (for Adults) is Suitable for Me?

There are various types of umbilical hernia bands recommended for treating umbilical hernias. Below you can find the range of umbilical hernia bands from Probrace.

Umbilical Hernia Band for Babies and Children

The Reh4Mat umbilical hernia band is a baby abdominal band equipped with a soft silicone pad that gently pushes the hernia back. Provide your baby with the support they need and relieve their

discomfort with this reliable umbilical hernia band. The Reh4Mat umbilical hernia band for babies and children is €29.95 and can be found here.

Citation:
[1] https://www.thuisarts.nl/navelbreuk/ik-heb-navelbreuk
[2] https://www.kinderneurologie.eu/ziektebeelden/symptomen/navelbreuk%20kind.php
[3] https://www.bernhoven.nl/folders/navelbreukoperatie-bij-kinderen/
[4] https://www.doktervancauwenberge.be/navelbreuk/volwassenen/