A Hernia is a condition where an internal organ or fatty tissue of the body pushes through the weak areas of surrounding muscles and tissues. Physically, it looks like an abnormally bulging body part. A hernia can be very painful, and if left untreated, it can lead to severe complications. However, there is no need to worry as hernia treatment can be done easily with hernia surgery.
Most cases of hernia are Inguinal hernia, which is found in the inner groin. If you have a weak abdominal wall near the inguinal canals (in the groin), your intestinal tissues might push through it. These are more common in males as the testicles descend through this canal after birth and sometimes might not close properly. The common inguinal hernia types are:
Hiatal hernia occurs when a part of your upper abdomen protrudes up the diaphragm into the chest region. These cases occur mostly in people over 50 years old but might also occur in children. The known hiatus hernia types are:
A small opening in a baby’s abdominal wall muscles allows the umbilical cords to pass, which generally closes shortly after birth. However, the abdominal layers might not join completely, allowing the intestines and other tissues to bulge through the weak spot around the belly button (umbilical hernia).
When your tissues push through the wall of the femoral canal, it is called a femoral hernia. The canal is located just below the inguinal ligament and the condition causes a bulge near the groin or thigh. Some common femoral hernia types are:
Engaging in strenuous activities like heavy lifting or exercise can put a considerable amount of pressure on the intestines and lead to the development of a hernia.
Injuries to the abdomen or the intestines can displace it and weaken the muscle tissues in the area, causing a hernia.
Most inguinal hernias happen because an opening in the muscle wall does not close before birth as it should. This leaves a weak area in the belly muscle.
Constipation can cause a lot of stress during bowel movements, and putting too much pressure on the intestines for a bowel movement can cause a hernia.
Chronic coughing refers to a condition where you have to cough constantly. Excessive coughing can put sudden pressure on the intestines.
Pregnancies put a considerable amount of pressure on the intestines of women since their muscle walls stretch. Multiple pregnancies can cause a weakened muscle wall near the stomach and lead to a hernia.
The excess amount of fat near the abdominal muscles can put pressure on the intestine, thereby causing a hernia.
If a baby is born prematurely, that means that it might have underdeveloped muscle tissue. This can sometimes cause a hernia in newborn infants.
Ascites is a condition where the liver does not function properly and leads to the buildup of fluid in the abdominal region. This can put pressure on the intestine and cause its displacement.
A noticeable bulge or lump near the groin or abdominal region. This is especially noticeable when you stand upright or while coughing.
A sensation of burning at the affected area.
Pain in the bulging area and sharp sensations when bending or doing strenuous activity.
A sensation of heaviness at the region of the bulge.
Pain and swelling around the testicles (for men in case of inguinal hernia).
A constant increase in the size of the bulging area.
Not being able to pass stools (caused by the inflammation and bulging of the intestines).
Try to maintain the ideal BMI to avoid excessive pressure on the body
When lifting weights or exercising, make sure to follow the correct steps to minimize the risk and decrease muscle strain
Focus on building your core strength to avoid the weakening of abdominal muscles
Eat foods that are good for smooth bowel movements such as fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in fibre
Make sure to visit the doctor and keep your health in check if coughing or sneezing persists