An umbilical hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the navel. This condition is common in infants but can also affect adults, especially those who are overweight or pregnant. Symptoms may include a noticeable bulge near the belly button, which can become more prominent when coughing or straining. Treatment for an umbilical hernia often involves surgery to repair the opening in the abdominal wall. While many small hernias in infants close on their own, larger or painful hernias in adults typically require medical intervention to prevent complications.