Umbilical hernia: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see
An umbilical hernia is when bowel or fatty tissue pushes out at the belly button through a weak point in the abdominal wall. It is common in babies and most close by themselves by age 4–5. In adults it does not go away by itself and is usually repaired with surgery because of the risk of strangulation.
Which doctor should I see for umbilical hernia?
For umbilical hernia you can first see: General Surgery or Pediatrics. If you are not sure, a family doctor can refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of umbilical hernia?
- A swelling at the belly button that is more visible when straining or coughing
- A bulge that gets smaller or goes back in when lying down
- Mild pain around the belly button
- In babies, the belly button bulging when crying
What causes umbilical hernia?
The most common causes are listed below. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
- 1In babies, the umbilical ring not closing fully
- 2In adults, excess weight
- 3Pregnancy
- 4Chronic cough and constipation
- 5Fluid in the abdomen
When is it an emergency? Call 112 now
- Has the swelling become hard, painful and will it not go back in
- Is there vomiting, a swollen abdomen or inability to pass wind or stool
- Has the skin over the hernia turned red or purple
- Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up
- Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg
- Are you struggling to breathe even at rest
What you can do at home
- Avoid heavy lifting and straining; prevent constipation.
- In babies, do not tape a coin or tie anything over the belly button.
- Go to the emergency department immediately for warning signs.
What not to do
- Do not put a coin or a tight band on a baby’s belly button; there is a risk of skin irritation and infection.
See a doctor if
- For a surgery plan when noticed in an adult
- In a baby, if it has not closed by age 4–5
How long does it last and how is it treated?
In most babies it closes by itself. In adults it is repaired by open or keyhole surgery, with mesh if needed.
Treatment options for umbilical hernia
See how each treatment is done, how long it takes and which doctors offer it in your city. Your doctor will decide which option suits you after an examination.
Find a general surgeon in your city
General surgeons in Turkish cities who can help with umbilical hernia.
People also describe it as
- “My belly button is sticking out”
- “My baby’s belly button is bulging”
- “Umbilical hernia”
Frequently asked questions
Which doctor should I see for umbilical hernia?
For umbilical hernia you can first see: General Surgery or Pediatrics. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of umbilical hernia?
Common symptoms: a swelling at the belly button that is more visible when straining or coughing; a bulge that gets smaller or goes back in when lying down; mild pain around the belly button; in babies, the belly button bulging when crying. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.
What should you not do with umbilical hernia?
Do not put a coin or a tight band on a baby’s belly button; there is a risk of skin irritation and infection.
What causes umbilical hernia?
The most common causes: in babies, the umbilical ring not closing fully; in adults, excess weight; pregnancy; chronic cough and constipation; fluid in the abdomen. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
How long does umbilical hernia last and how is it treated?
In most babies it closes by itself. In adults it is repaired by open or keyhole surgery, with mesh if needed.
Is an umbilical hernia dangerous in a baby?
It is usually not dangerous and closes by itself; go immediately for warning signs such as hardening, redness and vomiting.
Which doctor should I see for an umbilical hernia?
Adults see General Surgery; children see Paediatric Surgery.
When is umbilical hernia an emergency?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Has the swelling become hard, painful and will it not go back in?” “Is there vomiting, a swollen abdomen or inability to pass wind or stool?” “Has the skin over the hernia turned red or purple?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”
When should I see a doctor for umbilical hernia?
See a doctor: for a surgery plan when noticed in an adult; in a baby, if it has not closed by age 4–5.
Similar complaints
Emergency numbers in Turkey
112: ambulance, emergency (free, 24/7, from any phone). 114: National Poison Information Centre. 182: appointment line for public hospitals (MHRS). Pharmacies on night duty (nöbetçi eczane) are posted on the door of every pharmacy.
Sources
This page is based on current information published by the official and independent bodies below and on our editorial principles. Last updated: . To report an error: contact us.
This page does not provide a medical diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you think it is an emergency, call 112 (Turkey’s free emergency number). For poisoning, call the National Poison Information Centre on 114.