Hernia  

A hernia is caused when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in a nearby muscle or connective tissue, which is called fascia.  There are several types of hernias, including a hiatal hernia (when the stomach squeezes through the hiatus), an inguinal hernia (when the bladder or the intestine squeezes through the abdominal wall or the inguinal canal of the groin), an incision hernia (when the intestine squeezes through the abdominal wall at the point of a previous incision), an  umbilical hernia ( when a part of the small intestine squeezes through the abdominal wall near the navel), and the femoral hernia ( when the intestine enters the femoral canal which carries the femoral artery to the upper thigh).  Many other types of hernias exist, since there are many organs that can protrude through various openings in the body. 

The cause of all hernias is pressure and an opening or weakness in a muscle, or fascia. Pressure pushes the organ or tissue through the weakened opening.  Muscle weakness can be caused by smoking, bad nutritional practices, aging, weight loss, and over exertion.  Pressure that can result in a hernia can include heavy lifting, coughing, constipation, sneezing, and obesity.  Hernias can also have a genetic component. 

The major symptom for a hernia is a lump that appears with or without associated pain. An irreducible hernia can lead to strangulation which can cause bowel obstruction.  A strangulated hernia is painful and includes nausea and vomiting.  The patient appears to be ill and may have fever.  When strangulation occurs it is important to get medical attention quickly. 

All hernias need to be repaired unless surgery would be unsafe for the patient.  For example, the size of the hernia can prohibit surgical intervention.  Some surgical risks include infection, recurrence, and fluid retention. Many hernia surgeries are now done using laparoscopic techniques. 

There are preventive actions that can be taken before a hernia develops.  It is important to stay at a healthy weight, so, naturally, a well-rounded diet and exercise program is imperative.  Not only will your food choices keep your weight at the right point, but eating vegetables, whole grain, and fruits will keep your digestive system balanced which will prevent constipation which could lead to straining.  If lifting weights, lift safely by ensuring that the weights are not too heavy for your body type and size.  If you have a chronic cough, see a doctor to correct this condition, since coughing can lead to a hernia.