Hernia
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about hernia.
What isa hernia?
A hernia is the protrusion of tissue through a weak point in the abdominal muscles or surrounding tissues. In many cases, it does not cause any symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to, and a swelling may be noticed in the abdomen.
- There are several types of hernia:
- Inguinal hernia: Occurs when fatty tissue protrudes through a weak point in the abdominal muscles or the surrounding tissue wall. It is common in men and is associated with aging and repeated abdominal strain, such as some exercises that target the abdominal muscles.
- Femoral hernia: Occurs when fatty tissue or part of the intestine protrudes below the inguinal region at the top of the inner thigh. It is less common than inguinal hernia and affects older women.
- Umbilical hernia: An umbilical hernia occurs when fatty tissue or part of the intestine protrudes in the abdomen near the navel. This type of hernia can occur in children if the opening in the abdomen through which the umbilical cord passes does not close properly after birth, and it may close on its own without any medical intervention within the first five years after birth.
- Hiatal hernia: Occurs when part of the stomach pushes into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm, the thin layer of muscles that separates the chest from the abdomen.
- Incisional hernia: Occurs when tissue pushes through a surgical wound opening due to a previous surgery where the wound has not yet healed, especially in smokers and diabetics, as they can cause delayed wound healing.
- Epigastric hernia: When fatty tissue protrudes through the abdominal area between the navel and the lower part of the chest bone.
- Spigelian hernia: Occurs when the intestines push through the abdomen at the side of the abdominal muscle below the navel.
Diaphragmatic hernia: Occurs when abdominal organs move into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm, possibly occurring in children if the diaphragm does not form correctly during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of a hernia?
- Hernia symptoms vary depending on the location, but there are general symptoms:
- An unusual or unexpected bulge in the areas mentioned above.
- Disappearance and reappearance of the bulge when the person coughs..
Difficulty in bowel movements, flatulence, or severe pain in the hernia area are symptoms to watch for and may indicate hernia progression.
- What are the causes of a hernia?
- Some individuals are born with weak tissues, while in others, it occurs with aging.
- Weight gain or pregnancy increases abdominal pressure, raising the risk of hernia..
Lifting heavy objects can cause a hernia or increase its size.
What are the diagnostic methods?:
- The doctor takes a medical history and conducts a physical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
Using ultrasound imaging.
What are the treatment methods for hernia?
- Treatment involves several procedures as needed, which may include:.
Surgery, considered the only solution for hernia, and can be done through laparoscopy or open surgery, depending on the hernia type and the doctor’s discretion.
- What are the preventive measures for a hernia?
- One of the best ways to prevent surgical hernia is to avoid lifting heavy objects immediately after surgeries. An artificial mesh may be used as a preventive measure.
- Losing weight reduces the risk of umbilical and surgical hernia.
Quitting smoking helps speed up post-surgical healing and reduces the risk of surgical hernia.
What are the complications of a hernia?
- Some complications that may result from a hernia include:
- Frequent or persistent reflux and acidity in the case of a hiatal hernia.
- The hernia becomes rigid, and the patient is unable to return it to its place.
- Intestinal obstruction due to the hernia.
- Interrupted blood flow to the organ where the hernia is located.
- Recurring hernia even after surgical repair.
Chronic pain.
When should you see a doctor?
If you notice an unusual or unexpected bulge, see a doctor to take your medical history and conduct a physical examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a hernia or bulge develop into malignant diseases like cancer?
