Facts About Hernias in Kids: Symptoms and Treatments
- A hernia is a bulge of tissue that protrudes through the muscle.
- Children who have hernias are often born with them, though they may not be noticeable right away.
- The areas around the groin and belly button are the most common areas for hernias in babies and young children.
- An umbilical hernia is a bulge in the belly button, sometimes called an “outie.” Most will close on their own by age two.
- An inguinal hernia is a bulge in the groin. It should be repaired in a timely manner because it can cause discomfort, and on rare occasions, lead to the intestine being stuck in the hernia.
- Hernia repair is a common procedure. It should be done by a surgeon with training to operate on children, at a hospital that has pediatric-trained anesthesiologists.
- Recovery is relatively fast following hernia repair surgery. School-aged children are back to normal after about a week, and younger children recover even faster.
- Parents who notice a hernia on their child’s body should make an appointment with their pediatrician to help determine the type and course of treatment.
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