What Causes Hernia?

 

A Hernia might not appear to be a bigger problem at first, showing little to no symptoms apart from a small bulge that comes and goes. However, as time passes, the bulge can become bigger and cause symptoms like pain, weakness, and some serious complications as well. The very basic understanding of a hernia can be developed by understanding that it is caused when an organ pushes through a weak point in the muscles. Hernias can occur in different parts of the body, but hernias in the abdomen, groin, and diaphragm are the most common. Some people might be born with weaker muscles which makes them more prone to experience hernias, some other people who might be involved in heavy lifting, obesity or chronic coughing might also develop this condition. Any kind of pressure that is applied on the abdomen can potentially cause the organs to push through the muscles, causing a Hernia. In this article, we will dive deeper into hernias, and try to understand what they are, what their types are and how are they caused.

What is a hernia?

As discussed above, a Hernia occurs when an organ or internal body part bulges out through an opening or weak spot in the muscle around it. Mostly, these hernias involve one of the organs of the abdomen pushing through the abdominal cavity. Hernias can develop slowly as a person ages and develop weakness in muscles due to wear and tear. In some cases, hernia can also be present since birth, or occur as a repercussion of an injury. Some common hernia locations include the lower chest through the diaphragm, the groin through the lower abdomen, through a pre-existing surgery location, or along the midline of the abdomen. 

Different types of Hernias 

 A Hernia specialist​ might differentiate between different kinds of hernia as follows:

Inguinal hernia : These are the most common types of hernia which mostly affect men. They occur when a part of the bowel pushes through the inguinal canal, which is a passage that runs through the inner thighs.

Hiatal hernia : It is also a common type of hernia that develops with age. As the opening of the diaphragm widens with age, the stomach of the patient might push through it into the chest, causing a hiatal hernia. Thanks to modern medicine, there are many options for Hiatal hernia treatment​. 

Umbilical hernia​ : It occurs when a part of the intestine protrudes through an opening in the abdominal wall, near the belly button. In most of the cases, umbilical hernias are present from birth.

Apart from these types, there are some other types of hernias including Ventral, Perineal, Incisional, and Femoral Hernia. Another type of hernia called Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia is present in the child since birth and requires immediate care and attention as it doesn’t allow the child to breathe normally.

What are the main causes of hernias?

As discussed above, hernias occur when an internal organ protrudes through a weakness or a pre-existing surgical incision in the muscles. In some cases, this weakness or opening might be present in a patient since birth, but more often than not, it develops over time with age. Sometimes an injury can be the cause, but mostly, it is the repeated stress at a point in the muscles that causes this. A Hernia doctor near me​ can trace down the actual reason for the hernia during the diagnosis. Some people might be more at risk of developing a hernia than others. These risk factors include:

1. A job which requires longer durations of standing or heavy lifting.
2. Chronic cough or chronic sneezing that might be caused by allergies or some other conditions.
3. Chronic constipation or similar conditions require a person to strain in order to empty the stomach.
4. A history of surgery in the abdominal or pelvic region. 
5. In some cases, pregnancies, especially repeat pregnancies can make a woman more prone to developing a Hernia
6. Obesity, especially when it is chronic and the person has been severely  overweight for a long period of time
7. A child might be more at risk for having a congenital hernia in the cases of premature birth, cystic fibrosis, connective tissue disorder, hip dysplasia or other problems in the reproductive or digestive system.

A simple physical test might just be enough in order to diagnose a hernia depending on its type. The doctor might also make the patient stand or cough in order to have a better idea of the hernia. Some hernias might require imaging tests like a CT Scan to be diagnosed.

If you are looking for the Best doctors for hernia surgery or the Best hospital for hernia surgery in Mohali, Sohana Hospital might just be the right option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the world’s most advanced, cutting-edge technology and North India’s leading Hernia Specialists, who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for all the different kinds of hernia. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier and more comfortable future!