Hernia In Children: When That Little Bulge Becomes A Big Concern!

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A hernia happens when there is a weak spot or hole in the abdominal wall, allowing tissue, usually from the intestines or fat, to push through and create a bulge. While hernias are more common in adults, they can also occur in children and babies.

Common Types Hernias in Babies and Children

The most common types of hernias in children and babies are inguinal hernias (in the groin) and umbilical hernias (near the belly button).

The most common hernia in children, especially boys, where it’s 10 times more likely than in girls. It shows up as a small bump in the groin and can extend into the scrotum or labia. It affects 1%-5% of children.

This type forms near the belly button after birth when the muscles don’t fully close after the umbilical cord falls off. It affects 10%-15% of infants, with boys and girls equally affected.

This occurs when a section of the intestines pushes through the muscles between the belly button and the chest. Smaller ones often cause no issues, but larger ones might need surgery if they cause symptoms.

A rare hernia, usually a birth defect, where there is an opening in the diaphragm that lets organs from the abdomen move into the chest. It can also happen later in life from injury.

What causes an umbilical or inguinal hernia in a child?

Babies naturally have openings in their abdominal wall, which usually close before or right after they are born. Hernias in babies and children typically happen when these openings don't close properly, letting the intestines or other organs push through. A hernia can develop shortly after birth or even years later during childhood.

Risk Factors for Hernias in Children

Certain factors can increase the chances of a hernia in babies and children, including:

Being born prematurely or with a low birth weight.

Inguinal hernias are more common in boys, while umbilical hernias affect boys and girls equally.

Hernias are more likely if there is a family history or a genetic condition.

Conditions like undescended testicles, cystic fibrosis, needing peritoneal dialysis, or issues with the urinary or genital systems can raise the risk.

Umbilical hernias are more common in children of African descent.

Signs and Symptoms of Hernias in Children

It’s important to recognize the signs of hernias in children to get help quickly. Common signs and symptoms include:

A lump or swelling in the groin or near the belly button, which may be more noticeable when the child cries, coughs, or strains.

The child may feel pain or discomfort in the area, especially during physical activities or straining.

The bulge may be sensitive to touch, and the child might show discomfort when the area is pressed.

In serious cases, a hernia can cause nausea and vomiting, especially if the hernia becomes strangulated (when blood supply to the tissue is cut off).

Incarcerated and Strangulated Hernias

Sometimes, a part of the intestine can get stuck in an opening in the abdomen, which is known as incarceration. If this condition lasts too long, it can lead to strangulation, cutting off the blood supply to that section of the intestine. Signs of a strangulated hernia include:

Bloating
Fever
A lump or bulge that is larger than before and doesn’t go down on its own
Nausea and vomiting
Redness and tenderness around the hernia
Sudden, severe pain in the abdomen or groin

Incarcerated or strangulated hernias can be emergencies that need immediate medical care. If a child shows any of these symptoms, contact their doctor right away.

Can hernias in babies disappear on their own?

Umbilical hernias may not always need treatment, but inguinal (groin) hernias won’t heal on their own. If left untreated, they can grow and cause serious complications, such as cutting off blood supply to the trapped organ, which can lead to tissue damage.

Don’t delay! Consult pediatric surgeon Dr. Saurabh Garge for proper treatment for your child.

Diagnosing and Treating Hernias in Children

Pediatric surgeon Dr. Saurabh Garge can diagnose hernias through a physical exam of the child. He will check if the hernia can be pushed back into the abdominal cavity and may order an abdominal X-ray or ultrasound for a closer look.

Treating hernia is one of the most common surgeries for kids. If surgery is needed, the Pediatric surgeon may choose one of these methods:

This traditional method involves making a cut over the hernia. The bulge is pushed back into place, and a mesh may be used to strengthen the area before closing the incision.

In this method, the surgeon makes several small cuts. They use tools, including a camera, to perform the surgery through these openings.

Similar to laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery also involves small incisions. The Pediatric surgeon operates from a console, controlling a robot to carry out the procedure.

Conclusion:

Hernia in children is common and can be uncomfortable, which may worry parents. It’s important to know the signs, symptoms, and treatment options to ensure quick and effective care. If you think your child has a hernia, talk to Dr. Saurabh Garge, who is the best Pediatric surgeon in Indore, for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Getting help early can prevent complications and help your child stay healthy and active.

For parents looking for hernia treatment, hernia surgery is usually safe and successful, allowing children to return to their normal activities and live a healthy life.