A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body, often a portion of an organ, pushes through a weak spot or opening in the surrounding muscle or tissue that normally contains it. Hernias can occur in various areas of the body, and the most common type is an inguinal hernia, which occurs in the lower abdomen or groin area.
There are several types of hernias, including:
- Inguinal Hernia: Occurs in the groin area, most common in men.
- Umbilical Hernia: Occurs near the belly button, common in infants but also can affect adults.
- Hiatal Hernia: Occurs when part of the stomach pushes up into the chest through the diaphragm.
- Incisional Hernia: Happens at the site of a previous surgical incision.
- Femoral Hernia: Occurs in the upper thigh or groin, more common in women.
Symptoms of a hernia can include:
- A noticeable bulge or lump in the affected area.
- Pain or discomfort, especially when lifting, coughing, or bending over.
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen or groin.
While many hernias can be asymptomatic, if left untreated, they can become more painful or lead to complications, such as strangulation, where blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off, which requires immediate medical attention.
Treatment typically involves surgery to repair the opening in the muscle or tissue.
ChatGPT – 25th November 2025