Hernia occurs when an organ such as intestine pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue especially around the abdomen, hips, upper thigh and groin region.

TYPES OF HERNIA

According to a publication by Healthline, the following are the types of hernia;

1- INGUINAL HERNIA

This occurs when the intestine pushes through a weak spot or tear in the lower abdominal wall around the inguinal canal.

The inguinal canal in men is found in the area where the spermatic cord passes from the abdomen to the scrotum. In women, the inguinal canal contains a ligament that holds the Uterus.

2- HIATAL HERNIA

This type of hernia occurs when part of your stomach bulges up through the diaphragm into your chest cavity. It is common in men who are up to 50 years of age.

3- UMBILICAL HERNIA

This affects children and babies. They occur when the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall near the abdomen and makes a bulge. Most times it goes away on it’s own.

4- VENTRAL HERNIA

A ventral hernia happens when tissue bulges through an opening in the muscles of your abdomen either through pregnancy, strenuous activities, etc. It can also occur in surgical incision sites.

SYMPTOMS OF HERNIA

– Bulge or lump in the affected area like the groin

– You feel the lump when standing, bending or coughing.

– Discomforts or pains around the area.

– Heartburn

– Trouble swallowing

– Chest pain, etc.

CAUSES

Hernia is caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. It can develop suddenly or over a period of time.

The common causes of muscle weakness and strain are;

– Congenital birth conditions

– Aging

– Damage from an injury or surgery

– Strenuous exercise or lifting heavy weights

– Chronic coughing

– Multiple Pregnancies

– Constipation

RISK FACTORS

– Premature birth

– Having Chronic cough

– Low birth weight

– Genetics

– Chronic constipation

– Obesity

– Smoking.

DIAGNOSIS

The Doctor may recommend the following for diagnosis;

– Abdominal CT scan

– Abdominal ultrasound

– X-Ray of the digestive tract

– Endoscopy

– MRI scan, etc.

Hernia treatment

The only way to effectively treat hernia is by surgery