What is Hernia

When a part of intestine or other organs present in our abdomen start bulging out due to defect, hole or weakness of the muscles, then this condition is defined as hernia.

If a hernia disIt can be present since birth. These are congenital hernias and are caused due to incomplete closure of membranes present inside abdomen. Sometimes, such defects can manifest or become symptomatic in in later years

Hernia which occur in old age are mainly due to muscles weakness resulting in their tear.

If the bulge spontaneously disappears on lying down or by pressing upon the bulge, it is a reducible hernia.

If the bulge is permanent and does not disappear, then it is an irreducible hernia.

Risk factors for the development of hernia

Multiple pregnancies.

Chronic constipation or straining while passing urine

In young individuals, heavy weight lifting or excessive work outs.

Certain abdominal diseases cause fluid or water to accumulate in our stomach which over a period of time may cause hernia.

Hernias may be congenital( present since birth) or it may be caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. A hernia can develop quickly or over a long period of time, depending on its cause.

Common causes of muscle weakness include:

Types of hernia

Hernia can occur at different places between the chest and the thigh and depending upon their location, it can be:

Inguinal hernia: when the hernia or bulge is present in the upper part of thigh, also known as groin.

Femoral hernia: similar in location to inguinal hernia and is more common in females.

Epigastric hernia: when hernia occurs in between umbilicus or belly button and chest.

Umbilical hernia: when the bulge pushes through the belly button or just above it.

Ventral or incisional hernia: when hernia occurs through the previous surgical scar.