What it is
In children, surgery is usually only needed if the hernia has not closed by about age 4 or 5, or if it is large.
In adults, surgery to repair the weak spot is often recommended, because the hernia can get bigger or become trapped.
Common signs
- A soft lump in or near the belly button
- A lump that gets bigger when coughing, crying or straining
- A lump that may go back in when lying down
- Discomfort in adults, sometimes
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination
- Sometimes an ultrasound scan
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Examination notes
- Ultrasound reports
- Surgical notes
- Discharge letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- Does it need to be repaired?
- What are the risks of waiting?
- How long is recovery after surgery?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A hernia that becomes painful, hard, red or cannot be pushed back, especially with vomiting: call 112 or go to the emergency department
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.