What Is “Göbek Düşmesi”? Causes and Signs

“My belly button has dropped” — “göbek düşmesi” — is a common Anatolian way of describing abdominal discomfort in adults and children. It is not a medical diagnosis but the folk name for complaints such as abdominal pain, bloating and fatigue.

How is it described?

Traditionally it is thought to follow heavy lifting, a sudden movement, a fall or exhaustion. Described complaints include pain around the navel, bloating and indigestion, heaviness spreading to the lower back and groin, fatigue and changes in bowel habits.

What could be behind these symptoms?

Abdominal pain can have many causes — from simple digestive problems and muscle tension to urinary infections, gallbladder problems and appendicitis, which need urgent care.

See a doctor without delay if there is

• Severe or increasing pain, or pain in the lower right abdomen,
• Fever, vomiting, a hard or swollen abdomen,
• Blood in stool, black stool or vomiting blood,
• Inability to pass gas or stool,
• In children: abdominal pain with fever, drowsiness or refusing to eat,
• Any abdominal pain during pregnancy.

In these cases no abdominal massage should be done.

Children

In children the first step is always the paediatrician. Our gentle check for children is only done with a parent present, and not at all if there are signs that need a doctor.

The place of the traditional practice

When a doctor has ruled out a serious cause, gentle rhythmic massage around the abdomen may help the muscles relax and help you feel more comfortable. Diagnosing and treating the cause of abdominal pain is the doctor’s job.