Umbilical hernia
Overview
An umbilical hernia is a bulge in the tummy caused by part of the bowel, or surrounding fat, pushing through a weakness in the muscles.
Symptoms
Many babies are born with an umbilical hernia. Usually, the only symptom is a soft swelling or lump coming out of the belly button. In babies and children, umbilical hernias can range in size, from small, around the size of a pea, to larger lumps, around 2cm across. In adults, umbilical hernias can range from small (around 1cm in size), to medium (between 1cm and 4cm) and large (bigger than 4cm). Umbilical hernias are usually painless, though in adults they can sometimes cause discomfort when coughing or straining.
Causes
Umbilical hernias are common in babies and young children. They can happen when the muscles around the umbilical cord (where the belly button is) do not close properly after birth. Usually, the hernia will go away as the child grows older. In adults, an umbilical hernia can be caused by: living withobesityhaving multiple pregnancieshaving a condition that can cause a build-up of fluid inside your tummy (ascites), such asliver disease
Treatment
Children do not usually need treatment for an umbilical hernia as the hernia will usually disappear by the time they're 5 years old. Treatment is usually only needed if the hernia is very big or does not disappear. Surgery is usually recommended for adults as the hernia is unlikely to get better by itself. But if you're unwell due to a condition like liver disease, then you may not be fit enough to have surgery.