Pediatric Hernia – What Every Parent Should Know

Understanding Hernia in Children – Expert Care at Altrus Healthcare Dehradun

As a pediatric surgeon at Altrus Healthcare, the best hospital in Dehradun, I often meet worried parents asking about their child’s hernia. Let me explain this common condition in simple terms.

What is Pediatric Hernia?

A hernia happens when part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. In children, we mainly see two types – inguinal hernia (in the groin area) and umbilical hernia (near the belly button).

Inguinal Hernia in Children

Inguinal hernia is more common in boys than girls. You may notice a small bulge in your child’s groin area, especially when they cry, cough, or strain. This bulge often disappears when the child is calm or lying down.

The condition occurs because of incomplete closure of a natural opening during fetal development. Premature babies have higher chances of developing inguinal hernia.

Umbilical Hernia in Babies

Umbilical hernia appears as a bulge near the navel. It’s quite common in newborns, especially in Indian babies. Most umbilical hernias close by themselves before the child turns 2-3 years old.

When to Seek Medical Help

Visit a pediatric surgeon immediately if:

• The bulge becomes hard and doesn’t go back in
• Your child has severe pain or vomiting
• The bulge becomes red or purple
• Your baby refuses to feed

Treatment Options

Inguinal hernias always need surgical repair because they can cause serious complications. The surgery, called herniotomy, is safe and effective. We use minimal invasive techniques at Altrus Healthcare Dehradun.

Umbilical hernias usually heal naturally. Surgery is only needed if the hernia persists after age 2 years or becomes very large.

Recovery and Care

Most children recover quickly after hernia surgery. Parents can expect their child to return to normal activities within 2-3 weeks. Follow post-operative instructions carefully for best results.

Prevention Tips

While hernias cannot always be prevented, maintaining good nutrition during pregnancy and avoiding excessive crying or straining in babies may help.

At Altrus Healthcare, we provide comprehensive pediatric surgical care with experienced specialists and modern facilities. Early diagnosis and proper treatment ensure excellent outcomes for children with hernia.