An umbilical hernia can occur in Babies near birth, Children or Adults (although I think in Adults it might be called a Naval Hernia?" not sure.

begin quotes:

View all

An umbilical hernia is a soft bulge near the belly button where intestine or fat pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, common in newborns and usually harmless, often closing on its own by age 5, but in adults or persistent cases, it might need surgery if it's large, painful, or becomes incarcerated (trapped). Key signs include a visible bulge, especially when crying or straining, and potential discomfort or pain.  

In Infants & Children

• Cause: The abdominal muscles don't fully close after birth. 

• 
  

In Adults

• Causes: Increased abdominal pressure from obesity, chronic cough, pregnancy, or heavy lifting. 

Treatment: Often requires surgical repair, especially if incarcerated (trapped). 

When to See a Doctor

A healthcare provider should check any hernia to ensure it's not incarcerated, which can cut off blood supply (strangulation) and requires emergency care. 

Complications (Rare)

Incarceration: Tissue gets trapped, causing pain, redness, vomiting, and requiring immediate surgery. 

• Umbilical Hernia: Symptoms, What It Is, Treatment & Surgery

  An umbilical hernia is a tissue bulge on or near your belly button. In children they usually disappear by age 5. In adults, untrea...

  

  Cleveland Clinic

• 
• Show all

Dive deeper in AI Mode

This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more

Appearance: A bulge near the navel, more noticeable when crying. 

Treatment: Most close by age 4-5; surgery only if it persists or causes issues. 

Symptoms: A bulge, pain, burning, or gurgling near the navel, especially when straining. 

Umbilical hernia - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic

Overview. An umbilical hernia occurs when part of your intestine bulges through the opening in your abdominal muscles near your be...

Mayo Clinic

Umbilical Hernia | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Unlike most hernias, which develop in adolescence or adulthood, 20 percent of babies are born with umbilical hernias. An umbilical...

Johns Hopkins Medicine