ABOUT THE DISEASE
A hernia occurs when the inside layers of the abdominal wall weaken. The inner lining of the abdomen pushes through the weakened area to form a sac like a balloon. This, in turn, can cause a loop of intestine or abdominal tissue to slip into the sac, causing pain and other health problems. Hernias often can be pushed back into place (reduced). Some abdominal hernias can get stuck in the opening (irreducible hernia) and cannot be reduced. An irreducible abdominal hernia which is tightly squeezed into the opening is at risk for impaired blood supply (strangulated hernia). A strangulated hernia is a medical emergency.
Men and women of all ages can have hernias. It can occur in children too.
Hernia can be of various types:
Below the groin (femoral / inguinal), through the navel (umbilical), part of stomach pushes into chest (hiatal) and along a previous incision (incisional or ventral).
SYMPTOMS
- Can be symptomatic
- Discomfort
- Pain/dull aching sensation
- Visible protrusion in the area.
CAUSES
- Natural weakness in abdominal wall.
- Excessive strain on abdominal wall, as due to:
- § Heavy lifting.
- § Prolonged coughing.
- § Straining to have a bowel movement.
- § Excess weight
- § A cut (incision) made during an abdominal surgery.
DIAGNOSIS
- Physical examination
- CT Scan
- Ultrasound
TREATMENT METHODS
- Surgery is the only permanent treatment.
- Hernia correction can be done through Open or Laproscopic route.
You may also like to learn about:
Hiatal Hernia
Intestinal Obstruction
Intestinal Adhesions
Ascites
Inflammatory Bowel disease
Cystic fibrosis