Most umbilical hernias are not serious.
But in certain cases, surgery is recommended to repair them, and they can be dangerous.
This article will discuss the symptoms of an umbilical hernia and when nonsurgical or surgical treatment is recommended.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Is an Umbilical Hernia Serious?
Umbilical hernias can go away on their own in babies but not in adults.
They are not considered serious in most cases, but there are times when they need medical treatment.
In certain cases, they can even be life-threatening.
This is a medical emergency that can be fatal within hours if not treated.
Almost all hernias in children close by age 5.
If they are large, don’t close, or there are complications, surgery can repair the hernia.
Complications include an incarcerated or strangulated hernia.
Hernias feel soft and you may only be able to see them when the abdomen is pressed.
Taping a hernia down will not make it go away.
In some cases, it may be emergency surgery.
It can depend on the size of the hernia or other factors.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about it in 2005.
The mesh was recalled in 2010, and mesh developed a negative reputation.
The debate over the pros and cons of mesh continues, however.
Mesh can reduce the chance of the hernia coming back.
You may feel pain for a few days which fades to a feeling of soreness for about a week.
By four weeks after surgery, the pain should be gone.
Ice is useful for handling postoperative pain.
Summary
Umbilical hernias are common in babies but may also affect adults.
Hernias will not close in adults.
If blood is being cut off to other tissue, it can be a medical emergency.
In some cases, surgeons may use surgical mesh to repair the hernia.
Most hernia repairs go smoothly, and full recovery takes about a month.
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Johns Hopkins Medicine.Hernia in children and babies.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Umbilical hernia.
Columbia Hernia Center.Umbilical hernias: guide to symptoms & treatment.
Blay E, Stulberg JJ.Umbilical hernia.JAMA.
2017;317(21):2248-2248. doi:10.1001/jama.2017.3982
UCI Health.Is surgical mesh safe for my hernia surgery?
Food and Drug Administration.Surgical mesh used for hernia repair.
2016;316(15):1575-1582. doi:10.1001/jama.2016.15217
