Hernia: Causes and Types

Hernia is a common condition wherein an organ protrudes its way through a weak spot in the
nearby muscle or connective tissue into another part of the body causing pain and discomfort.
There are various causes for hernia to develop some of these could be - lifting of heavy objects
in incorrect posture or without proper balance; diarrhea and/or constipation; and prolonged
coughs and sneezing.
Often insufficient intake of nutrients causes the muscle tissues to weaken and thereby allow
protrusions from various organs. Some of the other cause of hernia that cannot be ignored
include - obesity, smoking and alcohol abuse. While these may not be directly responsible for
hernia. They might either increase the risk or precipitate the condition.
Essentially the cause for hernia is weakening of muscle tissue and additional pressure causing
the opening or a weak spot in the fascia. It is possible that some of the weaknesses could be
present even at birth while others develop through the course of our lives.
There are five major types of hernias, these are as given below:
1. Inguinal Hernia: those affecting the inner groin
2. Incisional hernia: these the result of an incision
3. Femoral hernia: these affect the outer groin
4. Umbilical hernia: they develop in the umbilical region
5. Hiatal hernia: they develop in the upper stomach region
The inguinal hernia develops in the inner groin, wherein the intestine protrudes through the
abdominal wall and into the inguinal canal in the groin. This type of hernia is primarily seen in
the males.
A previous surgical incision can be the breeding ground for incisional hernia, wherein the
intestines make their way through the weak spot caused by the incision in the abdominal region.
This type of hernia is primarily seen in the elderly, obese or those who lack physical activity
following an abdominal surgery.
Developing in the outer groin region, the femoral hernia is a condition wherein the intestines
protrude into the upper thigh and enters the cavity that carries the femoral artery. This type of
hernia is often seen in females, especially those that are pregnant or obese.
The belly button or the navel is also a weak spot for the intestines to make their way through.
Especially seen amongst infant, the umbilical hernia also affects women who have delivered
multiple children.
The hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm that allows the esophagus to pass through. Hiatus
hernia is a condition wherein the upper stomach protrudes through this opening.

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