For more information on inguinal hernias, please listen to the recording on hernias in the common illnesses and disorders section of your AudioHealth Library Directory. In an umbilical hernia, a portion of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal wall at the umbilicus or belly button area. This happens because of failure of the opening of the belly button or umbilicus to close before birth. An umbilical hernia appears as a bulge near or at the belly button, and is diagnosed by a doctor during a physical examination. In most cases, there may be no other symptoms and the hernia often naturally disappears by the age of five.
Treatment is usually unnecessary.
However, it is important to watch the hernia to make sure no complications develop. If an umbilical hernia is still present by age five to seven, surgery to repair the hernia may be recommended. If pain develops or the bulge cannot be pushed back into the abdomen with a gentle touch of the hand, a doctor should be seen immediately and surgery may be needed to correct the problem. A hernia should slip back into place and go flat with a gentle push or when the patient lies down. However, an umbilical hernia re-appears when pressure is removed or when the child gets up.