Umbilical hernia is a diagnosis that is often given to young children and only a doctor can determine it.
A hernia is a bulge of internal organs from the cavity of the usual location.
Reasons for the appearance of a hernia
The reasons for the formation of an umbilical hernia in a newborn can be different:
- heredity;
- weakness of the abdominal cavity;
- no overgrowth of the umbilical ring;
- an accumulation of gas in the stomach;
- poorly tied umbilical cord.
An umbilical hernia can appear when the child screams, in such cases it disappears by itself when the child calms down.
In a child under one year old, a hernia often occurs due to frequent constipation. It is not always possible to determine the exact reason for its formation.
Identifying an umbilical hernia
The presence of a hernia in a baby is very difficult to notice, since he constantly lies, and at rest of the child, the hernia falls into place. It can only be found when the baby is crying or when the baby is pushing.
An umbilical hernia, if small, is detectable by touch.
Treatment
Usually, an umbilical hernia disappears when the muscles of the abdominal wall are strengthened. This can be achieved with massage and strengthening exercises for children. Massage is the most effective method of treating a hernia in a child. Circular stroking around the navel (clockwise) relieves the baby from abdominal discomfort. Putting the baby on the tummy before feeding - the abdominal muscles are strengthened and gases are easily released. Light finger pressure around the navel also strengthens the muscles. With an umbilical hernia, you must strictly follow a diet in order to avoid the formation of constipation and gas.
Some parents treat children with folk remedies: they put a copper five-kopeck coin to the navel and fix it with a plaster, apply an adhesive plaster (for half an hour for 10 days in a row). Doctors call this method of treatment - fixation of the navel. Another remedy - put a cotton pad moistened with a little sauerkraut juice on the navel, cover it with a piece of fresh potatoes. After a month of constant use of this method, the hernia disappears.
With self-treatment and repositioning of a hernia, the most important thing is not to infect and not to infringe on the hernia.
If suddenly there is a strangulation of a hernia or inflammation, the hernia has increased in volume, you should immediately contact a surgeon. He will prescribe treatment and, if necessary, operate on the child.
