1. Pushing Through
A hernia occurs when a part of an internal organ pushes through a weak spot, mostly in the abdominal area. The hernia usually feels like a bulge under the skin, and is more visible when the abdominal muscles are tight. Activities that increase pressure in the abdominal area can cause a hernia to become worse, such as lifting, coughing or straining too hard during bowel movements.
2. Moanin' and Groin
An inguinal hernia is in the groin area. With this type of hernia, the intestines push through the inguinal canal in a weak area. Many times, this hernia happens because of heavy lifting or straining, obesity or during pregnancy. Symptoms may include a lump and in the groin, or in severe cases, a blockage in the intestines. An inguinal hernia usually requires surgery to repair. Another type of hernia that occurs in the groin area is the femoral hernia, and this is more common in women.
3. Belly Button Bulge
The navel is naturally weak, and many times an umbilical hernia occurs in newborns when the intestines poke through the abdominal wall. It usually heals by the time the baby is 1- year old, but a child may need surgery if it hasn't healed by age 4. It can also happen in children and adults, and those usually need medical attention. Sometimes an incisional hernia happens when an incision causes a weak spot; this can happen months or even years after the surgery.
4. Heartburn and Hernia
A hiatal hernia forms in an opening in the diaphragm, causing the top portion of the stomach to go into the chest area. Heartburn is a result from the stomach acid that flows back through the opening caused by the hiatal hernia. When there is a weak area in the upper midsection of the abdomen, an epigastric hernia may occur. This type of hernia is more likely to happen to men between the ages of 20 and 50.
5. It Comes From Your Parents
Hernias usually are not preventable and are often an inherited condition. You can decrease your risk of developing a hernia by lifting with your legs, having good posture with good abdominal support and controlling your weight. Most times, a hernia requires surgery.
