What is the treatment for a leaking umbilical hernia?
Patient: I have an umbilical hernia that seems like it may be leaking a tiny tiny bit. It's more red than usual today and I have stomach cramping.  I'm concerned with the tiny area that skin appears shiny like it may be leaking a little bit. Should I go to the emergency room? Doctor: Hello,Welcome to HCM,Your umbilical hernia may be getting worse and the pain is being caused by fatty tissues getting trapped in the hernia. This can reduce the blood flow to the tissue and cause the pain. Your symptoms may be relieved by lying down.If the hernia is the cause of your discomfort, there is a risk that tissue may get stuck and become irreducible. This would result in the need for an emergency operation to relieve the trapped tissue.Therefore, I suggest you see your doctor who will be able to examine the umbilical hernia and assess whether it is the cause of the problem.The only definitive treatment for umbilical hernia is surgery. An uncomplicated umbilical hernia is harmless. Only when it develops complications like obstruction or strangulation, it becomes an surgical emergency.Thank you.