A hernia results when there is a tear or weakness in the abdominal muscles. Organs (commonly part of the intestine) result in a bulge as it pushes out of its normal place in the abdomen, causing a hernia. Though hernias are often painless, they can cause discomfort, and should never be ignored. Hernias can lead to serious problems if the intestine gets caught in the hernia and loses its blood supply. Symptoms tend to get worse as the result of lifting heavy objects or overexertion during activities.

Due to various circumstances that take place in the development of the fetus during pregnancy, some types of hernias (inquinal, umbilical) also occur in newborns, but may not be noticeable until several weeks or months after birth. In some cases, hernias in children will self-heal, while in others, surgery may be required.

Types & Symptoms of Hernias

Hernias are classified by their location on the abdominal wall. They are grouped into five categories:

  • Inguinal (groin): A hernia that occurs in the groin area is an inquinal hernia. These are most common in children and men. Over 750,000 inguinal hernia repairs are performed annually in the United States.
  • Umbilical: These occur at the belly button and look like a bulging navel. They can be present in babies at birth, or can happen over time due to obesity, excessive coughing or pregnancy. The hernia occurs at a naturally weakened area where the umbilical cord was once attached. In children, these defects can resolve spontaneously. In adults, the only treatment is surgery.
  • Incisional/ventral: These occur on the front of the abdominal wall at the site of a prior surgical incision. Surgical scaring can weaken over months or years and result in a hernia. The likelihood of developing an incisional or ventral hernia increases with smoking, obesity, steroid use and chronic coughing.
  • Hiatal: These occur through a hole in the diaphragm that allows the esophagus to pass through and join the stomach. A weakened or enlarged area in the diaphragm allows the stomach to bulge into the chest cavity. These hernias can result in acid reflux and scarring of the esophagus. Larger hiatal hernias can result in other abdominal organs like the stomach and colon entering the chest cavity. Common symptoms include heartburn, difficulty swallowing food, chest pain after eating or the feeling that food is coming up the back of their throat.
  • Femoral