Dr Ashish Sachan - Laparoscopic, GI cancer and bariatric weight loss Surgeon

A hernia is a defect in the muscles and connective tissue of the abdomen. Sometimes fat or bowel can push through this defect, causing pain and a noticeable bulge. An umbilical hernia is a defect of the abdominal wall near the belly button (umbilicus). This is caused by the muscles not closing around the hole left by the umbilical cord and is usually present at birth. Adults usually notice a bulge at their belly button that is caused by increases in abdominal pressure. Chronic cough, obesity, accumulation of fluid in the belly due to liver disease (cirrhosis), and frequent pregnancies can cause umbilical hernias. What to Do If You Have an Umbilical Hernia?? If you notice a hernia (or bulge), it is best to see your doctor to determine the appropriate course of action. In children, umbilical hernias usually close by themselves as the child ages. If the hernia is noticed in children older than 5 years, then it is usually repaired surgically. For adults, very small umbilical h...