A hernia happens when an interior organ or other body part distends through the muscular wall or tissue. A hernia is a common problem. It causes a localized lump or bulge in the belly. The bulge may get greater when you hold up. It might leave when you rest. Pressure may be felt at this place while coughing, urinating or exercising. If the hernia is not treated on time then it may cause a serious problem.

Types of Hernia

Types of Hernia can be classified based on the part of the body where it occurs:

    Inguinal Hernia- It is generally found in men due to aging effect or severe pressure on the abdomen. It should be treated in early stages, negligence of which may incapacitate blood supply to the testicles due to which testicular tissues may become dead. Then we may have to remove that dead tissue.
    Femoral Hernia- This type of hernia is generally found in women in older ages. It occurs at top of inner thigh or line joining abdomen and thighs.
    Umbilical Hernia- This type of hernia is usually found near the belly button. It is generally found in babies and also in adults due to pressure on the stomach.
    Epigastric Hernia- It is found near the naval area. It is generally found in the newborn children.
    Incisional Hernia- Incisional hernia is found in the abdominal area where it was operated before.

Causes of Hernia

Hernia generally occurs due to weakness in the abdominal area or due to strain or pressure on the stomach.Some other causes of hernia are:

    Persistent Cough
    Overweight
    Poor Diet
    Lifting heavy weights
    Long-Term Constipation
    Smoking
    Physical Exertion

Diagnosis of Hernia

Diagnosis of hernia is done at the clinic. A doctor may ask you to cough or stand up to check whether there is swelling or bulge in the abdomen area. Sometimes if a doctor can’t understand your problem then he may suggest you an ultrasound of the abdomen.

Treatment for Hernia

The hernia can never go back by its own. The only solution to hernia is surgery that can be done in two ways. One is open surgery in which cut is made and weak tissues are set back in place. Another one is laparoscopy in which instead of long cut small incisions is made through which surgical tools are inserted. Which method is to choose for surgery, depends upon the doctor based on your conditions.

Author's Bio: 

Proctologist at Healing Hands Clinic Bengaluru