Benefits of umbilical hernia belt for babies

What is an umbilical hernia in babies?

An umbilical hernia occurs in newborns and babies when part of the intestines bulge through the abdominal wall into the navel. Hernias are usually painless and do not cause any problems. Most cases of umbilical hernia recover between the ages of four and six, but if it does not heal on its own or begins to cause health problems for the child, doctors may recommend surgery to treat the hernia.

Causes 

The umbilical cord is attached to the baby's abdominal muscles during pregnancy through a small opening called the umbilical ring, which usually closes on its own after birth. But if this opening does not close, and the intestines and fluid bulge from it, it is called an umbilical hernia in the form of a bump at the navel.

As for cases of umbilical hernia in older children and adults, the causes are different.

Who gets an umbilical hernia?

An umbilical hernia is a very common condition in newborns and infants under six months of age, affecting 20% ​​of babies. However, umbilical hernia can occur in older children and adults as well.

Symptoms

A lump under the skin around the belly button. The lump may appear larger when the child does something that puts pressure on the abdomen, such as standing, crying, coughing, or trying to poop. It becomes smaller when the child is calm and lying down.

Treatment

Most of the time, an umbilical hernia is not a cause for concern and does not require medical intervention unless the child reaches the age of six and the hernia is still present. Hernia surgery is only performed if:

• The hernia did not close by the age of five or six.
• The bump does not retract when pressed.
• Cause pain or other unpleasant symptoms to the child.

Effectiveness of umbilical hernia belt for babies

A common home remedy for umbilical hernia in babies is to use an umbilical hernia belt to reduce the bulge caused by the hernia. This belt works by compressing the bulge back into place without surgery. The belt may be practical, especially when used correctly according to the doctor's instructions, and it may have no effect in treating umbilical hernia. It is essential to consult a doctor before using the umbilical hernia belt and follow the instructions so that this belt does not cause any health problems for your baby.

The habit of wrapping the baby's belly is old; our grandmothers were always keen to wrap the belly of newborns and babies as a means of protection from cold and colic and treat hernias as well.

It is essential to follow the following instructions if your doctor advises you to use a medical belt to treat your baby's umbilical hernia:

• Buy an umbilical hernia belt from a pharmacy or places selling newborn and baby essentials.
• Ensure the belt is made of natural materials that do not irritate the infant's skin.
• Buy the right size for your child's age and weight.
• Do not tighten the belt to avoid causing the infant pain or discomfort.
• Always place the belt around the child's belly, change it when it gets dirty, and always ensure it is clean.

When to see the doctor

• The hernia becomes larger and swollen, and it feels hard when touched.
• The child's constant crying indicates that he is in pain.
• The hernia is visible even when the baby is calm or asleep, and you cannot push it inward.
• The child feels pain when the hernia is touched.
• Redness or discoloration of the hernia.

To sum up,

In most cases, baby umbilical hernias heal on their own without medical intervention. In some cases, surgery is needed to treat the hernia. The operation is simple and does not require much time to recover, especially if the hernia is small and is not accompanied by any complications. The umbilical hernia belt for babies is one of the home treatments considered safe, primarily if a pediatrician directs it. Talk to your child's doctor to find out if the belt suits your child's condition, and follow the instructions to avoid any problems or complications.