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Hernia

Also called: Enterocele

A hernia happens when part of an internal organ or tissue bulges through a weak area of muscle. Most hernias are in the abdomen.

There are several types of hernias, including

  • Inguinal, in the groin. This is the the most common type.
  • Umbilical, around the belly button
  • Incisional, through a scar
  • Hiatal, a small opening in the diaphragm that allows the upper part of the stomach to move up into the chest.
  • Congenital diaphragmatic, a birth defect that needs surgery

Hernias are common. They can affect men, women, and children. A combination of muscle weakness and straining, such as with heavy lifting, might contribute. Some people are born with weak abdominal muscles and may be more likely to get a hernia.

Treatment is usually surgery to repair the opening in the muscle wall. Untreated hernias can cause pain and health problems.

Symptoms of Hernia

The following features are indicative of Hernia:
  • groin pain
  • weakness
  • heaviness
  • burning
  • swollen or enlarged scrotum
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • fever
  • bowel movements
It is possible that Hernia shows no physical symptoms and still is present in a patient.

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Common Causes of Hernia

The following are the most common causes of Hernia:
  • heavy lifting
  • smoking
  • hard coughing bouts
  • poor nutrition

Risk Factors for Hernia

The following factors may increase the likelihood of Hernia:
  • genetic factor
  • smoking
  • obesity

Prevention of Hernia

Yes, it may be possible to prevent Hernia. Prevention may be possible by doing the following:
  • avoid heavy lifting
  • preventing constipation and straining during bowel movements
  • avoiding smoking habits
  • maintaining a healthy weight

Occurrence of Hernia

Number of Cases

The following are the number of Hernia cases seen each year worldwide:
  • Very common > 10 Million cases

Common Age Group

Hernia can occur at any age.

Common Gender

Hernia can occur in any gender.

Lab Tests and Procedures for Diagnosis of Hernia

The following lab tests and procedures are used to detect Hernia:
  • Abdominal X-rays: To capture the pictures of abdominal area
  • Computerized tomography (CT) scan: To see the blood vessels and blood flow on the x rays
  • Abdominal ultrasound: To create images of the organs structure

Doctor for Diagnosis of Hernia

Patients should visit the following specialists if they have symptoms of Hernia:
  • General surgeon

Complications of Hernia if untreated

Yes, Hernia causes complications if it is not treated. Below is the list of complications and problems that may arise if Hernia is left untreated:
  • strangulation of small intestine

Procedures for Treatment of Hernia

The following procedures are used to treat Hernia:
  • Open hernia repair: Moves hernia back to the abdomen
  • Laparoscopic hernia repair: Repairs the hernia using synthetic mesh or screen

Self-care for Hernia

The following self-care actions or lifestyle changes may help in the treatment or management of Hernia:
  • Avoid heavy lifting
  • Timely bowel movements: Preventing constipation and straining during bowel movements
  • Avoid smoking habits
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Eat high fibre foods

Time for Treatment of Hernia

While time-period of treatment for each patient may vary, below is the typical time-period for Hernia to resolve if treated properly under an expert supervision:
  • In 1 - 4 weeks

Related Topics

Last updated date

This page was last updated on 2/04/2019.
This page provides information for Hernia.

Related Topics

GERD

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