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A baby's umbilical hernia is a benign disorder that appears as a bulge in the navel. The hernia happens when a part of the intestine can pass through the abdominal muscle, usually in the region of the umbilical ring, which is the point where the baby received oxygen and food during its development in the mother's womb.
The hernia in the baby is not normally a cause for concern and does not even need treatment, since in most cases the hernia disappears alone until the age of 3.
Umbilical hernia does not lead to the appearance of signs or symptoms, only a bulge is noted during the evaluation by the pediatrician or when the baby cries or evacuates, for example. However, other types of hernia can cause swelling in the area, pain and vomiting, and it is important to take the baby to the emergency room to be evaluated and the best treatment can be indicated, which in these cases may involve performing a small surgical procedure.
Umbilical hernia symptoms
Umbilical hernia in babies does not normally lead to the appearance of signs or symptoms, being noticed only when the child laughs, coughs, cries or evacuates and returns to normal when the child lies down or relaxes.
However, if the hernia increases in size or despite any of the symptoms listed below, it is important to seek emergency medical attention, as it may not be just an umbilical hernia:
- Local pain and palpation;
- Abdominal discomfort;
- Great swelling in the region;
- Discoloration of the site;
- Vomiting;
- Diarrhea or constipation.
The diagnosis of umbilical hernia in a baby is made through a physical examination performed by a pediatrician, who palpates the navel area and observes whether there is an increase in volume in the region when the child makes efforts. In some cases, the doctor may also indicate abdominal ultrasound to assess the extent of the hernia and the likelihood of complications.
Why it happens
The development of the umbilical hernia happens due to the non-closure after the birth of the umbilical ring, which corresponds to the place where the umbilical cord passes, resulting in a space in the abdominal muscle, which allows the passage of a part of the intestine or tissue. fat.
Although umbilical hernia is frequent in premature babies, it can also happen in adults due to obesity, excessive physical effort or as a result of changes in the urethra or cystic fibrosis, for example. See more about umbilical hernia.
How is the treatment
Most cases of umbilical hernia do not need treatment, since the hernia disappears spontaneously until the age of 3 years, however it is important that the child is accompanied by a pediatrician in order to assess the development of the hernia or the appearance of signs or symptoms.
When the hernia does not disappear until the age of 5, treatment may be necessary, which occurs in a small number of cases. Thus, it may be necessary to perform a minor surgery, which lasts an average of 30 minutes and needs to be performed under general anesthesia, although it is not necessary for the child to be hospitalized. See how the surgery for umbilical hernia is done.