An epigastric hernia occurs when a weakened area in the abdominal wall allows a bit of fat to push through. Epigastric hernias are typically small and occur in the middle of the belly in the area between the belly button and the breastbone.

Some patients develop more than one epigastric hernia at a time. These hernias typically don’t cause symptoms, but you may experience pain in your upper belly.

Treatment of epigastric hernias typically involves surgery, but your doctor will discuss all your options with you in detail.

A hernia that occurs in the area of a previous surgery is known as an incisional hernia. These hernias may occur when the abdominal wall has been weakened by surgery, or when a surgical incision becomes infected, further weakening the area.

Incisional hernias are relatively common. They can develop soon after surgery or slowly over months or even years.

Since incisional hernias will not heal on their own, it’s important to talk to your doctor about treatment options.

Spigelian hernias occur in the middle of abdominal muscles, making them less immediately visible as a bulge or lump. Because of this, these hernias can go undetected for longer periods of time.

Developing a spigelian hernia is more rare compared to other hernia types. However, because spigelian hernias tend to be small, the risk of developing a strangulated hernia is higher and emergency surgery will be needed if that happens. 

An umbilical hernia occurs when a weak spot in the belly allows a bit of fat, fluid, or intestine to push through, creating a lump or bulge near the belly button.

Umbilical hernias frequently occur in infants. Surgery may be required, but in most cases, these hernias will heal on their own.

Umbilical hernias also occur in adults, particularly those with health issues that cause increased pressure in the belly, like obesity, pregnancy, chronic coughing or constipation and difficulty urinating.

Because they tend to grow bigger over time, umbilical hernias require treatment, which typically involves surgery. Without treatment, you are at risk of developing a strangulated hernia, which will require emergency surgery.