Hernias are most common in adult males, but they can affect people of both genders, and of any age. An infant’s body is still developing, which puts them at a greater risk of developing herniated tissue. The focus of this article is hernias and children. We will discuss what increases the risk of a child developing a hernia, the types of hernias that can affect a child, and how to treat these hernias.
Types of Hernias in Children
A child can develop a hernia at any age (some infants are even born with them). As we have discussed before, there are various types of hernias that can occur throughout the body. Here are the most common types of hernias that impact children:
- Inguinal Hernias, located in the groin area.
- Umbilical Hernias, located near the belly button.
These hernias will present with symptoms of pain, redness, or a bulge in the area. If you notice any of these signs in your child, seek medical attention right away. When these hernias are left untreated, they may become strangulated and cut off blood supply to other tissues or organs. As a result, childhood hernias may need to be treated as soon as possible.
Children Hernia Risks
Here are some of the risk factors that can increase a child’s chances of a hernia:
- Children who are born prematurely.
- Children who have a family history of hernias.
- Children who experience urological issues like undescended testicles.
If your child falls into any of these categories, keep an extra close eye out for any of the symptoms of herniation.
Treating Hernias in Kids
Treating children with hernias first requires a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is made, your doctor will offer treatment recommendations based on the child’s unique situation. The most common form of treatment for hernias in children is surgical repair. In fact, hernia surgery is one of the most common types of surgery that children undergo. If your child is suffering from a hernia, contact a skilled general surgeon who specializes in the treatment of childhood hernias.
