what causes a hernia

A hernia occurs when part of your insides bulges through an opening or weakness in the muscle or tissue that contains it. Most hernias involve one of your abdominal organs pushing through one of the walls of your abdominal cavity. 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. Specific causes of a hernia include increased pressure within the abdomen, a preexisting weak spot in the abdominal wall, straining during bowel movements or urination, strenuous activity, pregnancy, chronic coughing or sneezing, and aging, which can weaken the muscles