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What Causes A Long Vertical Bulge On The Stomach?
Question: I noticed a long verticle bulge ( 1.5 in high x 8 in long) in the center of my stomach when I was doing situps. I had my shirt off when I noticed it. Since I usually have my shirt on I do not know how long I have had this but I do know it was not there several months ago. I am not over weight and in fairly good condition for a 71 year old. It feels softer than muscle. Can you tell me what this is?
Brief Answer:
Diastasis recti.
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Thank you for the query.
What you have observed is most likely a condition called diastasis recti. In simple words rectus muscle has separated in two halves (in normal conditions rectus muscle is combined of two connected halves which protect the center of the abdomen). Due to weakness in the middle of abdomen, the organs (fat mostly) get pushed out a little through this weak area.
In contrast to abdominal hernia, there is no hole in the abdominal layers so the organs are not located under the skin.
Diastasis recti does not need any surgical treatment as it does not cause any pain (in most cases). To improve it, you may try to make abdominal muscle strengthen.
Diastasis recti needs to be checked for abdominal hernia possibility. This can be done by a general surgeon. That is why I suggest you to visit one. In case of any doubts, ultrasound can be helpful.
Hope this will help. Feel free to ask further questions.
Regards.
Diastasis recti.
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Thank you for the query.
What you have observed is most likely a condition called diastasis recti. In simple words rectus muscle has separated in two halves (in normal conditions rectus muscle is combined of two connected halves which protect the center of the abdomen). Due to weakness in the middle of abdomen, the organs (fat mostly) get pushed out a little through this weak area.
In contrast to abdominal hernia, there is no hole in the abdominal layers so the organs are not located under the skin.
Diastasis recti does not need any surgical treatment as it does not cause any pain (in most cases). To improve it, you may try to make abdominal muscle strengthen.
Diastasis recti needs to be checked for abdominal hernia possibility. This can be done by a general surgeon. That is why I suggest you to visit one. In case of any doubts, ultrasound can be helpful.
Hope this will help. Feel free to ask further questions.
Regards.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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