Hernia is a lump or mass that is caused due to weakness or strain in the muscle tissue in the abdominal area. It occurs when an organ pushes in through an opening of a muscle or the adjoining tissue that holds it intact. For example a portion of the small intestine or large intestine may protrude out from the weakened portion of the abdominal wall which may cause pain and discomfort. Hernias usually form in the abdomen region, may also form in the belly area, upper thigh and groin portion. Hernia once formed does not dissolve on its own and has to be removed surgically, they may not be a life threatening but cause severe pain and discomfort and may turn out be complicated to remove as one ages. The most common types of hernia are :
Inguinal Hernia: Inguinal hernia is formed in the inguinal canal when the intestines protrude from the lower abdominal wall which has become weak. These types of hernia are quite common and comprise almost 70% of the hernias, and are most commonly found in men.
Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia forms when a part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest. The diaphragm is a muscle sheet that helps us breathe by contracting and drawing oxygen into the lungs. It separates the organs in the abdomen from those in our chest.
Umbilical Hernia: Umbilical hernias form in babies under 6 months old usually. This happens when the intestines bulge out through the abdominal wall near the bellybutton. One may find a bulge in or near the child’s bellybutton, particularly when they are crying. This hernia disappears usually when the child is one or two years, if it does not then the surgery is performed.
Incisional Hernia: Incisional hernias can occur after any abdominal surgery. The intestines may push through the incision scar or the surrounding area of the, weakened tissue or muscles causing severe cramps.
