Signs Your Umbilical Hernia is Getting Worse – And What to Do Next

An umbilical hernia may seem harmless at first — just a small bulge near your belly button that you can push back in. But did you know that ignoring certain warning signs can lead to serious complications?

In this blog, we’ll help you understand the red flags that your umbilical hernia is worsening, why it happens, and what you should do next to stay safe and healthy.

📌 What is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia occurs when part of your intestine, fatty tissue, or fluid pushes through a weak spot near the belly button (navel). This creates a visible or palpable bulge, which may become more noticeable when you cough, lift something heavy, or strain.

Umbilical hernias are common in infants — but they also affect adults, especially those who have risk factors like obesity, multiple pregnancies, heavy lifting, or previous abdominal surgery.

Why Do Umbilical Hernias Get Worse Over Time?

Unlike other minor health issues, an umbilical hernia doesn’t heal on its own in adults. The weak spot in your abdominal wall remains — and pressure from inside your abdomen can push more tissue through this opening over time.

As the hernia enlarges, it can lead to complications such as incarceration (when the tissue gets stuck) or strangulation (when blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off). These conditions can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Key Signs Your Umbilical Hernia is Getting Worse

So how do you know when it’s time to see your doctor? Watch out for these warning signs:

1. The Hernia Becomes Larger

A small hernia bulge may gradually get bigger over weeks, months, or years. This happens because the opening in the muscle wall gets stretched due to pressure from inside your abdomen.

What to do:If your hernia is growing in size or becoming more prominent, consult your doctor. Larger hernias are more likely to become trapped and may require surgical repair sooner rather than later.

 2. It’s Painful or Tender to Touch

In the early stages, many umbilical hernias are painless. But if you start to feel persistent discomfort, pain, or tenderness around the hernia, this is a sign that it might be worsening.

What to do:Mild pain can be the first clue that the hernia is becoming incarcerated. Keep an eye on it and avoid activities that strain your abdomen. See your doctor for a check-up if pain becomes frequent.

3. You Can’t Push It Back In Anymore

Normally, many hernias can be gently pushed back inside (this is called “reducible”). But if the hernia gets stuck and won’t go back in, it may be incarcerated.

Why it matters:An incarcerated hernia can cut off blood supply to the trapped tissue (strangulation) — which is a surgical emergency.

What to do:Seek immediate medical attention if you can’t push the hernia back in. Don’t try to force it.

4. Redness or Discoloration Over the Bulge

Skin redness, darkening, or purple coloration over the hernia bulge is a red flag for strangulation.

Why it matters:This means blood flow is restricted to the trapped tissue, leading to tissue death if untreated.

What to do:Go to the emergency room immediately if you notice discoloration or severe pain. 5. Nausea, Vomiting, or Severe Abdominal Pain

A strangulated hernia can cause bowel obstruction. Symptoms may include:

• Sudden severe belly pain

• Nausea and vomiting

• Bloating or inability to pass gas

• Fever

What to do: These are signs of a surgical emergency. Call your doctor or rush to the hospital immediately.

📌 Who’s at Higher Risk of Hernia Complications?

Certain factors can increase the risk of your umbilical hernia getting worse:

• Obesity: Extra weight puts more pressure on the abdominal wall.

• Pregnancy: Especially multiple pregnancies can weaken abdominal muscles.

• Heavy lifting: Repeated straining can enlarge the hernia.

• Chronic cough or constipation: Increases internal pressure.

 What Should You Do If You Notice These Signs?

If you notice any warning signs that your umbilical hernia is getting worse, here’s what you should do:

✔️ 1. Avoid Heavy Lifting and Straining

Until you see your doctor, avoid activities that increase abdominal pressure — like lifting heavy objects, doing intense core workouts, or straining during bowel movements.

✔️ 2. Use a Hernia Belt (With Caution)

Some people use a hernia belt or truss for temporary support. While this can reduce discomfort, it does NOT fix the hernia. Always consult your doctor before using one.

✔️ 3. Seek Medical Advice Promptly

Don’t ignore symptoms. A simple outpatient hernia repair is much safer and easier than emergency surgery for complications.

✔️ 4. Plan for Surgical Repair

In adults, surgery is the only permanent solution for an umbilical hernia. It involves pushing the protruding tissue back and reinforcing the abdominal wall — often with a mesh implant.

Modern hernia repairs can be done via:

• Open Surgery: A small incision near the belly button.

• Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Surgery: Minimally invasive with faster recovery.

Your surgeon will recommend the best option based on your hernia’s size and your overall health.

📌 Is It Safe to Wait?

If your hernia is small, painless, and easily reducible, your doctor may suggest watchful waiting. But remember:

➡️ Umbilical hernias in adults rarely heal by themselves.

➡️ Over time, the risk of complications increases.

➡️ Elective surgery is safer than emergency surgery.

So, timely treatment can help you avoid unnecessary pain, complications, and costly emergency procedures.

📌 When to Call the Doctor – A Quick Checklist

👉 Hernia bulge is growing

👉 Pain or tenderness develops

👉 Hernia won’t go back in

👉 Redness, dark skin, or warmth over the hernia

👉 Sudden severe pain, vomiting, or bloating

✅ Takeaway: Listen to Your Body

An umbilical hernia might not be urgent at first — but it should never be ignored. If you notice any signs that it’s getting worse, don’t wait. A quick visit to a qualified surgeon can give you peace of mind and prevent an emergency down the road.

Need Advice?

If you suspect your umbilical hernia is worsening, book a consultation with an experienced hernia surgeon. They’ll help you decide the best time for repair and guide you through a safe recovery.

Stay informed. Stay proactive. Take care of your health.