A fairly common phenomenon can carry a serious danger in the form of a hernia, which is not so easy to detect.
Small bumps above the belly button are quite common, especially among babies and older children, although they can also occur in adults. Although some of these are not very dangerous, sometimes these swellings can be caused by a common type of hernia called an epigastric hernia. IFLScience writes that a certified medical biochemist explains how to distinguish harmless lumps from dangerous formations and how to deal with them.
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Epigastric hernias occur when a piece of fatty tissue pushes through a weakened or misshapen area of the abdominal wall. As a rule, they are located between the navel and the breastbone. These hernias are usually small and may only be noticed when you strain your abdomen, such as coughing or laughing.
So are there any symptoms that can help distinguish this hernia from typical formations above the belly button? Medical biochemist and University of Leicester graduate Holly Large explains that most epigastric hernias do not cause any symptoms, with doctors calling them “asymptomatic”. For this reason, they often go unnoticed, which makes them quite dangerous. However, if you are experiencing abdominal pain, this may be a sign that fatty tissue is protruding from the abdominal wall. This can occur when blood flow to the tissue is impaired.
What can be done about these hernias? Typically, there are a variety of treatment options available depending on the severity of the hernia, its location, and overall health and activity level, Large says.
If the hernia is not causing you pain, doctors can only watch at first. They will monitor how it changes over time by measuring its size and using imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan.
However, when the pain becomes severe, you can resort to surgery. Especially if the hernia is compressed or strangulated, the operation can be planned in advance or performed in emergency situations. During the operation, doctors make an incision in the area of the hernia and carefully push the protruding fatty tissue back into place. They then close the hole in the abdominal wall with stitches or a combination of stitches and plastic mesh.
So what causes epigastric hernias in the first place? It’s actually quite common in babies and young children, but it can also occur in adults. Although we don’t know the exact cause of these, there are factors that can increase your risk of developing them.
Risk factors for developing any hernia include, for example, heavy lifting or strenuous and prolonged physical activity. The main risk factors for the development of epigastric hernia in adults are excess weight or previous pregnancy. Both of these factors can stretch the abdominal wall and worsen existing weaknesses over time.
Large concludes that if you notice a suspicious lump in your stomach, you should definitely see your doctor.
Previously Focus We wrote about why stones sometimes form in our navel and how we can deal with them. Perhaps a strange natural cycle occurs deep within our belly buttons, known to the scientific world as “omphaloliths” or belly stones.
Moreover Focus wrote reasons why you shouldn’t suck your belly all the time. Such activity can lead to negative consequences that affect the entire body.
This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you are having problems, contact an expert.
Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.