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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Umbilical Hernia Life Threatening?

Hi, thanks for your time..... My boyfriend has an umbilical hernia that occasionally becomes exacerbated with strenuous activity. He does not have insurance and refuses to have this looked at or treated. Can this be life threatening? Is there anything I may be able to do at home to ease the discomfort when it does exacerbate?
Mon, 17 Feb 2014
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Gastroenterologist,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
I am Dr.Ratnakar and I am pleased to assist you.

Uncomplicated umbilical hernia is not life threatening.
Only complicated umbilical hernia is life threatening.

Umbilical hernia becomes complicated when it gets obstructed and strangulated.
When it gets obstructed, it does not return back in to the tummy. This may cause intestinal obstruction. When its blood supply gets compromised, it is called strangulated hernia. The hernia becomes painful and red when it is strangulated. These complicated hernias can be life threatening.

He needs to avoid straining which will worsen hernia. He should avoid lifting heavy weights, get treated if he is constipated or having persistent cough.

I hope that answers your question.
Regards,
Dr.Ratnakar
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Is Umbilical Hernia Life Threatening?

Hi, Thanks for posting your query. I am Dr.Ratnakar and I am pleased to assist you. Uncomplicated umbilical hernia is not life threatening. Only complicated umbilical hernia is life threatening. Umbilical hernia becomes complicated when it gets obstructed and strangulated. When it gets obstructed, it does not return back in to the tummy. This may cause intestinal obstruction. When its blood supply gets compromised, it is called strangulated hernia. The hernia becomes painful and red when it is strangulated. These complicated hernias can be life threatening. He needs to avoid straining which will worsen hernia. He should avoid lifting heavy weights, get treated if he is constipated or having persistent cough. I hope that answers your question. Regards, Dr.Ratnakar