How Do You Spell UMBILICAL HERNIA?

1. An umbilical hernia refers to a medical condition characterized by the protrusion of abdominal tissues or internal organs through a weakened or defective area near the belly button, known as the umbilicus or naval. It occurs when the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the belly button do not close completely after birth, leaving a small gap or opening. As a result, small amounts of fatty tissue, portions of the intestines, or other abdominal contents can push through this weakened area, causing a visible bulge or lump beneath the skin.

   Umbilical hernias are common in infants, affecting around 10-20% of newborns. They typically manifest as a soft swelling or a bubble-like bulge near the navel, which becomes more prominent when the baby cries, strains, or coughs. In most cases, umbilical hernias in infants resolve spontaneously within a few years as the abdominal wall muscles strengthen and close naturally. However, if the hernia persists beyond the age of 4-5 years or becomes larger, it may require medical intervention to repair the defect.

   In adults, umbilical hernias can develop due to a variety of factors, including obesity, multiple pregnancies, previous abdominal surgeries, or persistent increases in intra-abdominal pressure from activities like heavy lifting or chronic coughing. Symptoms in adults may include discomfort, pain, or a visible bulge near the belly button, particularly when straining or bending over. Surgical repair is often recommended for adult umbilical hernias to prevent complications such as hernia strangulation, in which the protruding tissues become trapped and deprived of blood supply, leading to severe pain and potential tissue death.

2. One in which bowel or omentum protrudes through the abdominal wall under the skin at the umbilicus.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for UMBILICAL HERNIA

The word "umbilical hernia" is derived from its Latin and Greek roots.

The term "umbilical" comes from the Latin word "umbilicus", meaning navel or belly button. This, in turn, is derived from the Greek word "ombilīkos".

The word "hernia" has a Latin origin, derived from the Latin word "hernia" meaning a rupture or a protrusion. It also has Greek roots, derived from the Greek word "hērniā", which has a similar meaning.

So, the combination of these two words in "umbilical hernia" refers to a type of hernia where there is a protrusion of tissue or an organ through the umbilical region or belly button.

Similar spelling words for UMBILICAL HERNIA