Ever heard about a hernia or you might be wondering what a is hernia? The small bulges or swells arise when an internal organ shoves through the wall of muscle or tissue encircling it. A hernia is very difficult to diagnose especially in women. They are too small and sometimes they are even hard to see, so you must realize how hard it is to diagnose them.
It is essential to be aware of hernia as if not diagnosed early or left untreated, a hernia can be painful, discomforting, and other dangerous conditions such as intestinal blockages and gangrene. Want to know what is a hernia? What are hernia causes and their treatment? Read on to learn all about the hernia.
What Exactly Is A Hernia?
You must be wondering what is a hernia? Well, a hernia is a condition that happens when an internal organ of our body pushes through an area in the adjoining muscle or tissue wall. This deals with an abdominal hernia which occurs when a weakness in the wall of the abdomen that in turn results in some of the contents in the abdominal cavity bulging out. Most hernias occur within the abdominal cavity, between the chest and the hips. Mostly, hernias require treatment by operating. There are several kinds of operations, which are mostly very successful. If you have a hernia, it’s crucial to treat it quickly.
Types Of Hernias
Yes, several types of hernias require medical attention. The most common types of hernia are:
- Inguinal hernia
- Femoral hernia
- Hiatal hernia
- Umbilical hernia
- Ventral hernia
Symptoms Of Hernia
Hernia, especially in a woman is hard to recognize or diagnose as they are small and can sometimes be hard to even see. A hernia in the abdomen or stomach can generate a visible lump or swelling that can be pushed inside or it can even disappear when you are lying down. One of the signs or symptoms of a hernia is when you laugh, cry or do something which involves contraction of abdominal muscles or any physical activity that may make the lump visible again after it has been shoved inside.
Symptoms Of Hernia Other than bulges or swelling, here are some possible symptoms of hernia:
- Gradually increasing pain at the place where you find the lump or bulge.
- Pain while lifting something heavy.
- Increase in the size of the bulge.
- Dull aching sensation in the place of the lump.
- A feeling of fullness.
- Vomiting
- Nausea
If you have a hiatal hernia, the lumps might not be even visible outside the body. You may experience some symptoms of a hernia of this type by heartburn, digestion problems, trouble in swallowing, regular regurgitation, and discomfort or pain in the chest.
Causes Of Hernia
Hernia causes are a combination of muscle weaknesses and strain. A hernia can develop very quickly depending on its cause. Sometimes hernia may not have any cause, it may happen without any obvious reason. The risk of hernia may increase as you age. Also, it is more common in men than in women. A hernia may also happen in children who are born with a weakness in their abdominal muscle or it can be congenital which means a hernia is present at birth.
The different types of hernias can have different causes. Generally, a hernia begins with pressure or tension on an organ or your intestines. A hernia is formed when pressure happens in the area where there are weakened tissues or muscles. Some people might be born with weak muscles (congenital) or tissue that isn’t completely developed. So, one of the central hernia causes is weakened muscles. You may develop a hernia (if you have weakened abdominal muscles) or worsen it due to the following reasons:
- Excessive use of the same muscle
- Picking up heavy objects especially in an improper way or when you are having weakened muscles.
- Obesity or poor nutrition is one of the other hernia causes.
- Consumption of tobacco
- A part of your organ or tissue pushed through a cut from a surgery.
- Strained movements such as sneezing, coughing, diarrhea, or constipation.
Diagnosing A Hernia
A doctor may conduct a physical exam for diagnosing a hernia in the patient. During the physical exam, your doctor feels if there are any bulges or swells in your stomach or the abdominal region that become bigger when you cough, strain, or stand. He may ask questions about some symptoms, lifestyle habits, family health history, or if you had any surgery in the past. All this may help the doctor in analyzing the symptoms and diagnosing.
Diagnosing A Hernia Your doctor may also suggest you go for a CT scan, abdominal ultrasound, or an MRI scan which can help check the size of the lump.
Treatment Of Hernia
If you think you can get a hernia treatment at home then you are wrong! You can’t strengthen your muscle by doing strenuous exercises or stretches. This may even worsen the problem. Consider talking to a doctor, that is the best solution to cure your hernia. If you feel you have symptoms you must get yourself checked as quickly as possible to receive the best possible hernia treatment. The only way to get rid of a hernia is through the surgical process.
Hernias can be fixed up with either open or laparoscopic surgery. These two surgical processes are used as hernia treatment. In open surgery, the surgeon makes an incision on the place where the hernia is present and then shoves the swollen tissue or muscle back into the abdomen. Then, the incision is closed. While in laparoscopic surgery, a tiny camera and surgical equipment are used to fix the hernia by making a few tiny incisions. Also, this method is less damaging to the tissues surrounding it.
This was all about what is a hernia, hernia causes, symptoms of a hernia, and hernia treatment. Hernia might be asymptomatic but as soon as you feel you are experiencing some symptoms of a hernia, consider taking advice from the doctor. If you have a weakened tissue or muscle, do not put excessive pressure on it. Ensure making some lifestyle changes to keep your muscles and body healthy.
A healthy body is a luxury!
Also read- Hernia In Women
