Depending on the severity, the area of the defect can varys from 1 to 5 centimeters in diameter. Small hernias usually close spontaneously without treatment by age 1 or 2. Umbilical hernias are usually painless. Umbilical hernias are common in infants. The exact incidence is unknown.
Umbilical hernias occur slightly more frequently in infants of African American descent.
The vast majority of umbilical hernias are not related to any disease condition. There is no known prevention. Taping or 'strapping' and umbilical hernia will not cause it to go away. Symptoms Return to top a soft protrusion over the umbilicus, ranging in size from 1 to 5 cm in diameter may be flat when infant is on his back and quiet but protrudes when upright, crying or straining Signs and tests Return to top A physical examination reveals the hernia . Treatment Return to top Usually, no treatment is required unless the defect persists past the age of 2 years.