Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What causes a hernia?

Hernias can occur if there is a natural opening or weakness in the abdominal wall. When there is an increase in pressure within the abdomen, from straining, lifting heavy items or coughing, it may cause internal organs or fatty tissues to bulge out through the opening or weak spot in the abdominal wall.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is a hernia?

A hernia is a condition that occurs when an internal organ or fatty tissue pushes through a natural opening or a weakness, usually in the abdominal wall. This may create a bulge that can be felt from the outside.

What are the symptoms of a hernia?

The symptoms of a hernia may include discomfort or pain usually with straining or physical activity, a bulge that may be felt and/or seen, and a heaviness or tugging sensation in the groin. Occasionally, there may be no symptoms and your doctor may notice …

How is a hernia diagnosed?

In most cases, hernias can be diagnosed with a physical exam. Your doctor may check for a bulge in your abdomen or groin that gets bigger when you cough, strain or stand. In some cases, hernias may need to be diagnosed using imaging techniques such as an …

What is the treatment for a hernia?

Most hernias are treated using surgery. The two main types of surgery used to repair hernias are open and laparoscopic hernia repair. Both are performed in hospital under anesthesia. Both types strengthen the opening or weakening that caused the hernia …

Who can develop a hernia?

Anyone can develop a hernia, but there are specific factors that can increase a person's chance of getting a hernia. The risk of getting a hernia increases with age. People who have a family history of hernias, who are overweight, have weak or injured abdominal …

Is a hernia serious?

A hernia can be very serious if it is not treated. Without treatment, a hernia can grow larger and cause more problems. The structures within the hernia may get stuck (known as an incarcerated hernia), which predisposes the blood supply to these structures getting …

Can a hernia be prevented?

Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, avoiding heavy lifting and eating a diet high in fiber all lower the chance of getting a hernia.

How common are hernias?

Hernias are a common condition. Surgery to repair a hernia is one of the most common operations.

Are there different types of hernias?

Yes, hernias can be divided into different types depending on their location, the cause of the hernia, and/or the structures within the hernia. The most common type of hernia is an inguinal hernia, which occurs in the groin area. Some of the other …

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Heartburn

Heartburn, also known as GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid or contents travel from the stomach back up the oesophagus, usually into the mouth. There are numerous treatments to help alleviate symptoms.…
Diseases & conditions

Barrett’s esophagus

Barrett's oesophagus occurs when the cells lining the oesophagus – the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach – change from a type of cell called squamous into columnar (cells more typical of the stomach and small intestine), due to damage from acid reflux.…
Diseases & conditions

Traveler's diarrhea

Traveller's diarrhoea is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract that mainly affects travellers, typically due to poor sanitation. It usually causes urgent and frequent diarrhoea. This can be unpleasant and potentially lead to dehydration. It is important to keep hydrated and medications may be needed to help with symptoms.…
Diseases & conditions

Gallstones

Gallstones are usually small stones formed in your gallbladder, which is an organ that stores bile to help digest food. They can cause problems if they get stuck at the opening of the gallbladder or pass beyond.…
Diseases & conditions

Constipation

Constipation is a common condition, in which bowel movements are not regular and stools become difficult to pass. There are many causes. Treatments include drinking more fluids, a diet high in fibre, more physical activity and, when needed, medications.…
Diseases & conditions

Rectal bleeding (blood in stools)

Rectal bleeding is usually due to small anal tears or haemorrhoids, but can also be caused by a bowel condition. Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of colon cancer, so it needs to be investigated by a doctor. It is very common, so do not be embarrassed about discussing it with your doctor.…

About this article

Author: Karen McCloskey BHSc
First answered: 23 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Votes: 1367 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Heartburn

×

Content goes in here.