An overblown balloon bursts at its weak point. Likewise, in our body, due to overstretching or weakness, any part can give/tear and simultaneous propulsion of internal parts happens through them. This pop up is called hernia. Hernia is a protrusion of internal organs through an abnormal opening. It can occur in any weak part of the body which allows the part to protrude.
Though, may develop in any part of the body; however, it occurs most commonly in the abdominal walls. Any increase in intra-abdominal pressure contributes for hernia formations. The incidences of tear mostly coincide with weakness of abdomen after obesity, pregnancy, multiple deliveries, diseases of the abdomen which makes it bulge or weakens it. Likewise, strain in lifting heavy objects, strenuous coughing, strain while passing stool or urine, standing continuously for a long time, putting on weight can also initiate popping of herniaHernia.
The commonest hernial sites (weak spots) are inguinal region, femoral region, umbilical area, epigastric area and in diaphragm (which splits chest from abdomen).
Hernia can be classified in different ways. Congenital – by birth i.e., development disorders; Infantile – during infant stage due to weakness; Senile – due to weakness in elderly persons; and Traumatic – due to injury or strain. Further, it can be classified as Bulging or Sliding. It may be reducible – which get back easily to original position or Non-reducible – which will not get reduced due to strangulation or obstruction.
According to region, hernia are: Inguinal ; Femoral; Umbilical; Epigastric or Hiatus.
Inguinal hernia – is the most common hernia occurring in the groin (the lowest part of abdomen or pot belly near the junction of thigh). Weakness, ageing, strain and pregnancy are the major precursors for this type of hernias. Inguinal hernia can be classified further into Incomplete hernia – hernia which has not reached the scrotum; Complete hernia – hernia that has reached the scrotum; Direct hernia – hernia that comes directly forward. This type is more common in aged people irrespective of sex. Indirect hernia – hernia that passes through inguinal canal are called indirect hernia. It can occur at any age but can be seen only in men.
Femoral hernia – Even though it can occur in any sex, fat women above the age of 40, who have given birth to multiple children, are more vulnerable to femoral hernia. This type of hernia lies below the pubic tubercle whereas inguinal hernia lies above it.
Umbilical hernia – is also one of the commonest types of hernia occurring more commonly in infants irrespective of sex. This type of hernia protrudes through umbilicus. It commonly arises due to development defect, premature delivery and in children who cry a lot, who cough a lot, and who strain a lot at stool.
Epigastric hernia – occurs in median line in epigastric region i.e. just in front of stomach and Hiatal hernia – means protrusion of stomach into chest through diaphragm.
Incisional hernia – means hernia occurring at the site of surgical incision. It can be compared with worn out thread in the stitch. It occurs due to strain or improper healing.
Other than umbilical hernia in infants, no other hernia heals on its own. Hernia management ultimately depends on the nature of site, its intensity, pain, reducible characters and risk factors. Even though hernia can be managed and supported well with truss / hernia belt / padding, they can in no way cure it. For curing, one should opt for surgery.
According to the place and size, hernias are repaired surgically (i.e. Herniorrhaphy – with or without plastic / nylon mesh). This normally prevents intestinal damage and further complications. Surgical correction also relieves swelling, discomfort, and pain immediately. Surgery always outweighs the risk of strangulation, obstruction and other complications.
Please visit: http://www.herbsandcures.com .
