Umbilical hernias can usually be seen when your baby is crying, laughing, or straining to use the bathroom. The telltale symptom is a swelling or bulge near the umbilical area. This symptom may not be present when your baby is relaxed. Most umbilical hernias are painless in children.
Adults can get umbilical hernias as well. The main symptom is the same - a swelling or bulge near the navel area. However, umbilical hernias can cause discomfort and be very painful in adults. Surgical treatment usually is required.
The following symptoms may indicate a more serious situation that requires medical treatment:
the baby is in obvious pain
the baby suddenly starts vomiting
the bulge (in both children and adults) is very tender, swollen, or discolored