What is hernia in children and what are the symptoms

Hernias in children need to be taken seriously, and some severe cases may require prompt medical attention and surgical intervention.

Hernia refers to the protrusion of abdominal contents (such as intestines) through a weak part of the abdominal wall, which is common in the umbilical or groin area. In children, hernia is often caused by congenital incomplete closure of the abdominal wall structure or weak abdominal wall muscles, especially in premature infants or low birth weight infants.

If parents find a soft protrusion in their child's groin or navel area, which is more obvious when the child cries, coughs or exerts force, and may disappear on its own when the child lies flat, it is mostly a sign of hernia. If the hernia cannot be retracted and is accompanied by the child crying, vomiting, or the affected area becomes hard and red, parents should be alert to the possibility of incarcerated hernia, which is a dangerous situation that requires emergency treatment.

Parents should pay attention to avoid long-term coughing and constipation in their children to reduce the impact of increased abdominal pressure on hernia. For mild symptoms, you can choose to observe, but once hernia occurs frequently or is accompanied by the risk of incarceration, it is particularly important to consult a pediatric surgeon in time for evaluation and necessary treatment.