Hernia - Know Factors Behind It!

Hernias are not life-threatening but commonly experienced by many people. Hernias are experienced when an organ pushes through the muscles or tissues surrounding them. A hernia can occur anywhere in the body. The most common areas affected by it are the abdominal area, upper thigh, groin and belly button. In most cases, surgery is required to treat this condition.

There are 4 common types of hernias. These are:

-  Inguinal hernias
This is the most common type of hernia and affects more men than women. It occurs when the intestines push through the lower abdominal wall into the inguinal canal. 

-  Hiatal hernias
This commonly affects elderly people and occurs when the stomach pushes upwards through the diaphragm. It may also affect children if they are born with a congenital birth defect. 

-  Umbilical hernias
This affects children and occurs when the intestines push through abdominal wall near the bellybutton. 

-  Incisional hernias
This occurs after abdominal surgery when the intestines push through the scar or other weak tissues. 

A hernia can develop overnight or develop over a period of time. It can be triggered by many factors that cause weaken the muscles and strain the body. 

Some of these are:

-  Congenital defects such as the abdominal wall failing to close properly
-  Age
-  Persistent coughing
-  Surgical errors or injuries
-  Pressure on the abdomen caused by pregnancy
-  Straining as a result of constipation
-  Collection of fluid in the abdomen
-  Heavyweight lifting
-  Excess weight gain

If anyone in your family has a hernia, you are at a high risk of suffering from one as well. Being obese and smoking can also increase your risks. Cystic fibrosis can also indirectly trigger a hernia by causing a persistent cough. 

Sometimes a hernia has no symptoms. A bulge in the affected area is the most common symptom of a hernia. 

Some other symptoms that you may notice are:

-  Pain in the affected area
-  Weakness or pressure in the abdomen
-  A burning or aching sensation in the affected area
-  Acid reflux
-  Chest pain
-  Difficulty swallowing