
Procedures
What you can do
- List any signs or symptoms you or your child has had, and for how long.
- Bring in a photo of the hernia if signs of the problem aren't always evident.
- Write down key medical information, including any other health problems and the names of any medications you or your child is taking.
- Write down questions you want to be sure to ask your doctor.
How do you treat and repair an umbilical hernia?
How to Treat Inguinal Hernia Without Surgery
- Wear a Hernia Belt. ...
- Hold It With Your Hand When Coughing or Straining. ...
- Walk Lightly on Your Feet. ...
- Stay Away From Foods That Inflame The Intestine. ...
- Do Exercises to Strengthen the Inner and Outer Obliques, and Transverse Abdominals. ...
- More Thoughts on How To Treat Inguinal Hernia Without Surgery. ...
How to fix an umbilical hernia without surgery?
Surgical Alternatives to Hernia Mesh
- Bassini
- Desarda
- Guarnieri
- McVay/Cooper’s Ligament
- Shouldice
How do you repair an umbilical hernia without mesh?
Your Hernia Recovery From Surgery
- About Your Recovery. Once your surgery is over, there’s only one thing you need to do: start getting back to your life. ...
- When You Wake Up. ...
- When You Can Go Home. ...
- Before You Leave. ...
- Pain Medication. ...
- At Home. ...
- Feeling Tired. ...
- First Weeks Do’s and Don’ts. ...
- Warning Signs After Surgery. ...
What is the recovery time for an umbilical hernia surgery?

When should I worry about my umbilical hernia in adults?
A bulge in the belly button or surrounding region (often most visible when coughing or straining) Pain at the hernia site. Constipation. Sharp abdominal pain and vomiting can mean the hernia is strangulated (note: if you are experiencing these symptoms please seek immediate medical attention as surgery may be required) ...
Can you heal an umbilical hernia without surgery?
An umbilical hernia won't go away on its own. Only surgery can repair it.
Do umbilical hernias go away in adults?
Umbilical hernias in adults are less likely to go away on their own. They usually grow larger over time and often require surgical repair.
What happens if you don't fix umbilical hernia?
If the trapped portion of intestine is completely cut off from the blood supply, it can lead to tissue death. Infection may spread throughout the abdominal cavity, causing a life-threatening situation. Adults with umbilical hernias are somewhat more likely to experience a blockage of the intestines.
Will losing weight reduce an umbilical hernia?
Losing weight relieves excess pressure on the abdomen, which can prevent a hernia from developing, improve hernia symptoms, and avoid complications such as strangulation. Weight loss alone may be all you need to reduce the size of your hernia and eliminate pain.
How long can you wait to have umbilical hernia surgery?
Most umbilical hernias (about 90 percent) close on their own by the time the child is 4-5 years old. Therefore, your surgeon may recommend waiting until your child is 4-5 years old before undergoing a surgical repair. Waiting has benefits even if the hernia does not close on its own.
Is umbilical hernia surgery major or minor?
Is umbilical hernia repair major surgery? An umbilical hernia repair is a relatively routine surgery and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. It can be performed as an open surgery or a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
Should I push my umbilical hernia back in?
You cannot push the hernia back into place with gentle pressure when you are lying down. The area over the hernia turns red or becomes tender.
Do umbilical hernias affect bowel movements?
Symptoms of umbilical hernia Cries. Strains while making a bowel movement. Coughs.
How do you know when it's time to have hernia surgery?
You may have a hernia if you have swelling and a bulge that is able to be “pushed back” into your abdomen. If it continues to grow, you will need to have hernia surgery in order to repair it....Symptoms include:Nausea.Vomiting.Fever.Intensifying pain.A bulge that turns red or purple.
Can you live with a hernia for years?
The absolute answer is that it is “unpredictable.” Some can live with a hernia for their whole life while others will develop a hernia related emergency within months of the development of their hernia.
Which surgery is best for umbilical hernia?
Laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair is a safe and effective technique, even in the presence of multiple previous abdominal surgeries, with two thirds of patients requiring less than 24 hours of hospitalization. It also allows for identification of previously undiagnosed second hernia defects.
How can I heal my umbilical hernia naturally?
Umbilical hernias will not go away naturally and need medical treatment to repair them. The only way to repair an umbilical hernia is through surgery. Hernias develop when an internal part of the body pushes through a weak point of muscle or tissue. Most types of hernias develop in teens or adults.
How can I fix my umbilical hernia at home?
In babies and young children, most umbilical hernias close without surgery. But larger umbilical hernias or those that become strangulated will require surgery. In adults, surgery is elective and recommended. There are no home treatments to "fix" an umbilical hernia without surgery.
Can you push a hernia back in?
You cannot push the hernia back into place with gentle pressure when you are lying down. The area over the hernia turns red or becomes tender.
How can I heal a hernia naturally?
Although there is no natural cure for hernias, you can talk to your doctor about natural remedies — such as aloe vera, castor seed oil, and vegetable juice –which are sometimes used to relieve hernia symptoms because of their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
How to repair a hernia?
The only way to repair an umbilical hernia is through surgery. An umbilical hernia repair surgery helps to push the sac back into place and strengthen the abdominal wall. There are two types of surgery available to repair the hernia.
How to diagnose an umbilical hernia?
Diagnosis for an umbilical hernia. To diagnose an umbilical hernia, your doctor will give you a physical exam and ask about your full medical history . They will check for any swelling or a sac near your belly button, which is commonly the first sign of an umbilical hernia. Your doctor will check to see if the hernia has become incarcerated ...
What is an umbilical hernia?
Umbilical hernias will not go away naturally and need medical treatment to repair them. The only way to repair an umbilical hernia is through surgery.
What is the name of the hernia that occurs near the belly button?
Umbilical hernias are more common in infants, and 20% of babies are born with one. An umbilical hernia occurs near the belly button (umbilicus) when an intestinal loop pushes through the abdominal wall. They can look like an outie belly button.
How to prevent hernia from coming back?
In this surgery, your doctor will make a small incision near your hernia and a surgical mesh is placed over the hernia site in the muscle. The mesh reinforces the area to help prevent the hernia from coming back.
What is a hernia in the body?
Hernia is when part of a tissue or an organ bulges through a weak point in the body. There are various types of hernias occurring in different parts of the body.
What causes a bulge in the groin area?
Direct and indirect hernia are both inguinal hernias. Both types of hernias may cause a visible bulge in the groin area. Weakness in the muscle of the abdominal wall causes a direct hernia. A birth defect causes an indirect hernia. Hernias that can't be pushed in need surgery.
Why do you need surgery for an umbilical hernia?
For adults, surgery is typically recommended to avoid possible complications, especially if the umbilical hernia gets bigger or becomes painful.
How to diagnose an umbilical hernia?
An umbilical hernia is diagnosed during a physical exam. Sometimes imaging studies — such as an abdominal ultrasound or a CT scan — are used to screen for complications.
When do umbilical hernias close?
Most umbilical hernias in babies close on their own by age 1 or 2.Your doctor may even be able to push the bulge back into the abdomen during a physical exam. Don't try this on your own, however.
What to do if your child has a hernia?
If you or your child has signs or symptoms common to an umbilical hernia, make an appointment with your family doctor or your child's pediatrician. Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment and know what to expect from your doctor.
Can you put tape over a bulge?
Placing tape or an object over the bulge doesn't help and germs may accumulate under the tape, causing infection. For children, surgery is typically reserved for umbilical hernias that: For adults, surgery is typically recommended to avoid possible complications, especially if the umbilical hernia gets bigger or becomes painful.
What is umbilical hernia?
An umbilical hernia is a condition in which swelling is seen around belly button also known as a navel umbilicus, owing to an intestine or tissues bulge through the weaker section of the belly button.
What type of hernia reduces in size when a person is lying down & can be pushed?
Reducible hernia: This type of hernia reduce in size when a person is lying down & can be pushed back into the opening.
How is a hernia surgery done?
Surgery is initiated with making a small puncture in the abdomen. A hollow tube is passed into the opening. This hollow tube contains surgical tools and a camera with light. Carbon dioxide is used to inflate the stomach, making it easier to view hernia. Mesh may be fixed with stapling muscles around hernia or by sutures. The open incision is then closed with sutures, clips or by using glue.
What does it feel like to have a hernia in the navel?
Pain or pressure in the navel area is felt if the hernia is large
Can a hernia be repaired?
Umbilical hernia surgery or repair depending on the lump size, location & if the umbilical hernia operation is the first time or recurrence treatment, can be done by open hernia repair or laparoscopy hernia repair.
Is umbilical hernia genetic?
Genetics. An individual having a family history of an umbilical hernia is more prone to this condition.
Can umbilical hernia recur?
Recurrence: There are some chances of recurrence of umbilical hernia post-treatment. Obesity and smoking increase the chances of recurrence. Recurrence of hernia is more common in old age people.
How to repair a hernia in the lower abdomen?
The hernia is repaired using specially designed surgical instruments passed through the other cuts. A synthetic mesh may be used to strengthen the wall of the abdomen. The skin cuts are closed with stitches.
What are the complications of an umbilical hernia?
Other complications specific to umbilical hernia repair are uncommon but include: 1 damage to other organs in the abdomen - this is more likely if the operation is done using keyhole surgery and further surgery may be needed to repair any damage 2 pain or numbness in the lower abdomen - this may last several months 3 re-occurrence - it's possible the umbilical hernia may re-occur
What is the purpose of a hernia repair operation?
About the operation. The aim of a hernia repair operation is to push the contents of the bulge back into the abdomen and strengthen the abdominal wall. There are two main types of hernia repair operations - open and keyhole. In most cases, the operation is an open repair, which involves a small cut just below your belly button.
Why does my belly button pop outwards?
An umbilical hernia is a result of weakness in the muscles in or around your belly button. It causes the belly button to pop outwards and can happen at any age. Umbilical hernias are most common in women during and after pregnancy, and in people who are overweight.
How long do you need to rest after anaesthesia?
If you have general anaesthesia, you will need to rest until the effects of the anaesthetic have passed. You may need pain relief to help with any discomfort as the anaesthetic wears off.
How long is a cut in the abdomen?
Open surgery. A single cut (5 to 10cm long) is made just below or above your belly button, and the bulge is pushed back into place. Your surgeon may stitch a synthetic mesh over the weak spot to strengthen the wall of the abdomen. The skin cut is closed with stitches and covered with a dressing.
Is it safe to repair a hernia?
Umbilical hernia repair is commonly performed and generally safe. However, in order to make an informed decision and give your consent, you need to be aware of the possible side-effects and the risk of complications of this procedure.
What is an umbilical hernia repair?
When internal tissue extrudes through a weak spot in the muscles or fascia in the abdominal wall, causing a visible protrusion or bulge near the belly button (the umbilicus), it can be surgically corrected with an umbilical hernia repair (aka herniorrhaphy).
How much does umbilical hernia repair cost?
Umbilical hernia repair is usually considered medical necessity, so it's typically covered by health insurance.
How serious is an umbilical hernia?
A small umbilical hernia can be relatively harmless. If the hernia grows in size and the muscle tightens around it , it can become painful and dangerous.
Does umbilical hernia surgery hurt?
You'll be given local or general anesthesia during the surgery, so you'll either be relaxed and comfortable or fully asleep.
What is the recovery time for an umbilical hernia surgery?
You’ll need to take a week or two off work (depending on whether you have an open or laparoscopic procedure), resuming your normal activities only once you’re pain-free.
Why do my umbilical hernias flare up?
Some just look like an outie belly button, but they can flare up due to multiple pregnancies, age (as muscles weaken overtime), obesity, chronic straining from lifting or exercise, ascites (excess fluid in the belly), and genetics.
Why is fascia sutured back together?
In both cases, the fascia over the weakened abdominal muscles is sutured back together and surgical mesh may be placed, to strengthen the weakened abdominal tissue and prevent future hernias. The skin is then sutured or closed with surgical glue.
How to treat an umbilical hernia?
One of the symptoms of an umbilical hernia is acid reflux. In order to get relief from this, you can take chamomile herb. A cup of chamomile tea can also provide relief from indigestion and inhibit releasing of stomach acids.
How to treat a hernia without surgery?
Practice correct breathing while performing any exercise routine. Breathe from the abdomen instead the chest.
Why does my umbilical hernia hurt?
An umbilical hernia appears near the belly button or navel. This is caused by excessive pressure on the abdomen that causes the intestines to bulge through the weakened abdominal wall that can cause swelling and pain.
How to treat a hernia while pregnant?
Additionally, pregnant women with an umbilical hernia can try breathing exercises, yoga, stretching, cycling, and meditation. They should also refrain from wearing high heels to reduce the pressure on lower abdominal muscles. People who are looking for hernia treatment can book an online consultation or visit the nearest Pristyn Care clinic.
What is the best way to treat a hernia?
For the management and treatment of hernia including a belly button one, yoga is considered as one of the most effective options. Here is a list of yoga poses that can be helpful in treating as well as prevention of umbilical hernia – Naukasana (Boat Pose) Uttanpadasana (Raised leg pose)
What homeopathic medicine can help with hernia?
Opium. This homeopathic remedy can cure symptoms of hernia- redness of the face, inability to pass urine, vomiting, abdominal pain. In addition to these symptoms, opium can also treat an inguinal hernia.
What is the best herb for umbilical hernia?
Hawthornia is a mixture of litchi seeds, fennel and citrus seeds. Widely used in China, the hawthornia can cure the umbilical hernia. This herb works by strengthening the weakened abdominal muscle. This can also prevent the development of an umbilical hernia.
What do I need to know about an umbilical hernia repair?
An umbilical hernia repair is surgery to fix your umbilical (belly button) hernia. An umbilical hernia may be repaired if the hernia is preventing blood flow to your organs, blocking your intestines, or causing pain. An open repair or laparoscopic repair may be done to fix your umbilical hernia.
What will happen during a laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair?
You will be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during surgery. Your healthcare provider will make a small incision above your belly button. He or she will insert a laparoscope through this incision. A laparoscope is a long metal tube with a light and camera on the end. The provider will insert other instruments by making 2 to 4 smaller incisions at different places on your abdomen. He or she will inflate your abdomen with gas. This will help your provider see your hernia better.
How to get rid of pain after abdominal surgery?
You will be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during surgery. Your healthcare provider will make an incision near your belly button. He or she will move your intestines or tissue back into their correct place. Strong stitches may be used to close the opening in your abdominal wall.
What is the best way to close a hernia in the abdomen?
Strong stitches may be used to close the opening in your abdominal wall. Mesh may be used to cover or plug the area. Mesh helps prevent the hernia from happening again. Your healthcare provider may close your incision with stitches, medical glue, or Steri-strips™.
What is the best way to cover a hernia?
Mesh may be used to cover or plug the area. Mesh helps prevent the hernia from happening again. Your healthcare provider may close your incisions with stitches, medical glue, or Steri-strips™. He or she may also place a small bandage over the incisions.
How does a laparoscope help a hernia?
The provider will insert other instruments by making 2 to 4 smaller incisions at different places on your abdomen. He or she will inflate your abdomen with gas. This will help your provider see your hernia better.
How to prepare for surgery?
Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for surgery. He or she may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of surgery. He or she will tell you what medicines you should take or not take on the day of surgery. You may be given an antibiotic through your IV to help prevent a bacterial infection. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic. Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you after surgery. The person can watch for problems and help you around the house.
How long does it take to repair an umbilical hernia?
An umbilical hernia repair is a relatively routine surgery and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. It can be performed as an open surgery or a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. An open surgery might require two to three days of hospitalization, but with a laparoscopic surgery a patient may be able to go home the same day or within 24 hours.
What is the procedure for umbilical hernia?
Procedure. An anesthesiologist administers anesthesia and monitors the patient’s vital functions during the procedure . The surgeon makes one or more incisions in the skin next to the umbilical hernia. The surgeon gently pushes back the protruding intestine and abdominal tissue back in place. The surgeon may cut out dead tissue if it is ...
How is an umbilical hernia surgery performed?
An umbilical hernia surgery is usually performed by a general surgeon. Depending on the condition of the patient, the surgeon might use one of the three types of anesthesia,
What is the recovery time for an umbilical hernia surgery?
Most people can return to normal daily activities within a week or two after an umbilical hernia surgery. They may be advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for about six weeks.
How long does it take to recover from a laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery?
Most people can return to normal activities in two weeks, but may need to avoid heavy lifting.
What is the difference between umbilical and intestine hernia?
A hernia is a protrusion of an internal body part, such as the intestine, through a weak spot in the muscle or the surrounding tissue wall. An umbilical hernia repair is a corrective surgery for a hernia in the navel (umbilicus) region .
What causes a bulge in the groin area?
Direct and indirect hernia are both inguinal hernias. Both types of hernias may cause a visible bulge in the groin area. Weakness in the muscle of the abdominal wall causes a direct hernia. A birth defect causes an indirect hernia. Hernias that can't be pushed in need surgery.
How to heal a hernia in the abdomen?
Yoga can help strengthen weak abdominal muscles. Image Credit: Hero Images/Hero Images/GettyImages. An umbilical hernia is caused by excess pressure at the abdomen, specifically near your navel. Excess pressure causes your intestines to bulge through a weakened abdominal wall, causing swelling and pain. You can use exercise to treat umbilical ...
How to treat a hernia without surgery?
Exercises are an important part of umbilical hernia treatment without surgery. Yoga boat pose strengthens weak abdominal muscles surrounding a hernia. HOW TO DO IT: Sit on the floor with your legs straight in front of you. Place your hands underneath your thighs and gently lift your legs toward your chest, keeping them straight.
What happens to the umbilical cord after birth?
After birth, the cord is cut, and this opening in the abdominal wall muscles should close. In some cases, it might not heal fully, increasing the risk of umbilical hernia.
How to strengthen lower abdominal muscles?
Cycle Your Legs. Bicycling your legs in the air strengthens your lower abdominal muscles. HOW TO DO IT: Lie on a slant board. Slant boards raise your feet higher than your head, taking away excess pressure as you exercise. On your slant board, you can do bicycle leg exercises by lifting your legs toward your chest.
How to get rid of abdominal pressure?
Correct Your Breathing. Exercise correct breathing when performing any workout. Breathe from your abdomen instead of your chest. This lifts the diaphragm and releases excess abdominal pressure. HOW TO DO IT: Lie on your back on the floor. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
How to reduce hernia risk?
Stretch Your Middle. Abdominal muscle mobility and flexibility help reduce risk of hernia. HOW TO DO IT: Lie on your back on the floor with your legs bent at a 90-degree angle. Turn your bent legs to your right until they touch the floor, keeping your back firmly on the ground.
Does exercise help a hernia?
Exercise does not always mend a hernia. In some cases, surgery to push the hernia back in through the abdominal wall may be necessary. Always consult your doctor regarding your hernia before starting any exercise program to reduce it.
