A hernia is a condition where an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue called fascia. The most common site for a hernia is the groin, accounting for nine out of ten hernias. Other common sites include the belly button and the site of a previous surgical incision. A visible lump or bulge is one of the key characteristics of a hernia.
Hernias can occur gradually as you get older and regular wear and tear on your muscles begins to add up. They can also result from an injury, surgery, or birth disorder. Some people may be more likely to acquire a hernia if they have risk factors such as obesity, poor nutrition, and smoking, which can weaken muscles and make hernias more likely.
The only effective treatment for a hernia is surgical repair. If left untreated, the split in the muscle widens, and greater amounts of tissue or organs are pushed through the opening, forming a sac. In some cases, a hernia can become strangulated, which means that the intestinal loop is held tight by the muscular ring, leading to further swelling of the loop and eventual strangulation of the entrapped bowel. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or the inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement.
