Umbilical hernia, do I need to go to a doctor?
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I have just noticed a small umbilical hernia -- I pushed the pinkie-sized bud back in -- so far I am assymptomatic - -Is this something I need to immediately go to my doctor to have him evaluate it?
Dear Mike: Umbilical hernias are caused when there is a area of weakness in the abdominal wall commonly seen in overweight people and in women, especially after pregnancy. They tend to get bigger over time. Small hernia as described in your case will not require any treatment and can be observed. Surgery is only indicated for more severe cases. I would advise that you make lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and dietary modifications that will strengthen the muscles of the abdomen and probable stop the worsening of your umbilical hernia. |
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 19 January 2012 )
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