Patient's question:
The baby's navel is protruding relatively high, but it can be pushed back by hand. When pushing it back, there is a gurgling sound, as if there is water inside. What could be the reason for the baby's navel protrusion?Doctor's answer:
It is an umbilical hernia. Due to the failure of the child's bilateral rectus abdominis muscles and their anterior and posterior sheaths to close at the umbilicus, under various factors that increase intra-abdominal pressure such as coughing, difficulty defecating, excessive night crying, etc., the intestinal tube protrudes through the unclosed umbilical ring to form an umbilical hernia. Children with this condition often exhibit gurgling sounds in their stomach, straining, and turning red when holding their breath after feeding, with intermittent constipation and diarrhea, and a history of eczema, which is somewhat related to cow's milk protein allergy. It is recommended to switch to a hydrolyzed protein formula for treatment, with formula feedings during the day and breastfeeding at night.