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[Hayfever] [Hernia]

HERNIA

An abnormal protrusion of an organ part through the tissues that hold it, is termed as hernia. Laxity of the muscles causes an opening in the body wall allowing the body part to protrude.

TARGET GROUP:

Hernias can be seen in children as well as adults. Hernia is common in infants when the lining of the abdominal walls does not close properly before birth.

TYPE OF DISEASE:

Hernias are divided into several types depending on its location. Inguinal hernia occurs as a lump in the groin or scrotum and is common in men. Femoral hernia is common in women and occurs as a bulge in the upper thigh. Incisional hernia occurs through a scar in case of an abdominal operation. Umbilical hernia occurs in the belly when the musclearound the navel doesn't close entirely. Hiatal hernia affects both sexes and occurs in the stomach.

 

SYMPTOMS:

The various symptoms of hernia are:

• Protruding bulge
• Gangrene
• Severe pain
• Discomfort
• Vomiting and nausea
• Weakness and fatigue
• Fever

 

AFFECTED AREA:

A hernia may develop in almost any part of the body; however, the muscles of the abdominal wall are most commonly affected.

CAUSES:

Umbilical hernias occur at birth, due to congenital abdominal wall weakness, but most occur later due to pressure on openings or weaknesses in the abdominal cavity. Hernias are influenced by heredity and can be caused by such things as coughing, chronic constipation, lifting heavy objects, accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, and obesity. Hernias can also be caused by chronic lung disease. An injury or a surgery can also cause hernia. Pregnancy can also lead to hernia.

RISK TO OTHERS:

The various risk factors for hernia are: pregnancy, obesity, previous surgical operation, cystic fibrosis, chronic cough, chronic constipation, weak muscles, family history of hernias, enlarged prostrate.

 

RISK TO SUFFERER:

The potential complication of hernia is infection and abscess formation. An incarcerated hernia can cause strangulated intestine, which will cause gangrene. If the bowel remains in the protruding loop, it may stop the flow through the intestine. If the loop itself becomes twisted outside its containing structure, then the blood supply to the loop will stop and the hernia will undergo tissue death, indicating a life threatening condition requiring immediate surgery.

 

TREATMENT:

Various supports and trusses may offer temporary relief in most types of hernia. Herniorrhaphy is the best treatment which involves the surgical closure or repair of the muscle wall through which the hernia protrudes. When the affected area is very big, some strong synthetic material may be sewn over the defect to reinforce the weak area. Most hernias can be pushed back into the abdominal cavity.