Umbilical hernia is a condition that affects many people. Although it is mainly associated with newborns, it is more and more often diagnosed in middle-aged men. What is an umbilical hernia, what are its causes and what is the treatment?
What is an umbilical hernia?
An umbilical hernia is a protrusion in the navel area, caused by weakness of the abdominal muscles. At this point, internal organs, most often the intestines, push out through the hole in the muscle fascia, forming a characteristic nodule.
Causes of umbilical hernia in men
In men, an umbilical hernia can be the result of a number of factors, such as:
- Overweight and obesity: Increased pressure in the abdominal cavity weakens the muscles and promotes the formation of hernias.
- Exercise: Heavy lifting, intense exercise, or chronic coughing can lead to excessive tension in the abdominal muscles.
- Age: As we age, the muscles lose their elasticity, which increases the risk of a hernia.
- Genetic factors: Family predisposition may increase the likelihood of a hernia.
- Surgeries: Postoperative scars weaken the connective tissue, which can promote hernia.
Symptoms of umbilical hernia
The most characteristic symptom of an umbilical hernia is a soft, palpable lump in the navel area. This lump can grow larger when coughing, sneezing or exercising. Other symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort in the navel area
- Feeling of heaviness in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting (if hernia is entrapped)
Umbilical hernia diagnosis
The diagnosis of umbilical hernia is based on a physical examination. The doctor assesses the size and location of the hernia, and also checks whether it is “pushable” back into the abdominal cavity. In some cases, they may order additional tests, such as an abdominal ultrasound, to rule out other conditions.
Umbilical hernia treatment
The only effective way to treat an umbilical hernia is surgery. The procedure involves draining the hernia back into the abdominal cavity and strengthening the weakened area with a surgical mesh. The surgery can be performed using the traditional or laparoscopic method.
Traditional method: It involves making an incision in the skin around the navel, then inserting the protrusion back into the abdominal cavity and suturing the muscles.
Laparoscopic method: It is a minimally invasive procedure during which the surgeon makes several small incisions and inserts a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) into the abdominal cavity. Using specialized tools, he inserts the hernia back into the abdominal cavity and places the surgical mesh.
Complications of umbilical hernia
If left untreated, an umbilical hernia can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Hernia entrapment: The intestines or other organ become trapped in the hernia opening, which can lead to intestinal obstruction and ischemia of the trapped tissues.
- Gangrene: In extreme cases, hernia entrapment can lead to intestinal necrosis.
Umbilical hernia prevention
To reduce the risk of umbilical hernia, it is worth to:
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Avoid lifting weights.
- Strengthen your abdominal muscles through regular exercise.
- Follow a proper diet rich in fiber.
- Treat chronic cough.
Summary
Umbilical hernia is a common condition in men that can lead to serious complications. Early diagnosis and treatment help avoid unpleasant consequences. If you notice symptoms of an umbilical hernia, contact your doctor immediately.
