A distending disorder, a hernia develops when an organ or tissue bulges through an area of weakness within the border muscle or connective tissues. Hence the term "herniate." Most of the hernias form inside the abdomen, at times, in the groin or diaphragm, causing pain and discomfort due to exertion. There are incidences when heavy lifting, overweight, chronic cough, and even pregnancy can become causes for hernia disturbances. However, some hernias go unnoticed by the person at times, even to the extent of death should they remain untreated with time. In extreme cases, surgical intervention is recommendable to avert strangulation. Early detection combined with modifications in lifestyle may help manage hernia effectively toward ensuring better health and preventing accompanying complications.

Causes of Hernia:

• Heavy Lifting: Stressing the muscles of the abdomen without sufficient support will cause the weakening tissues and bear advocating a hernia.
• Chronic Coughing or Sneezing: Usually a lung disease due to smoking or an allergy that leads to persistent cough, continuous pressure is being placed into the abdominal wall.
• Obesity: More body weight adds to abdominal strain making the muscle susceptible to hernia.
• Pregnancy: The pregnancy is such that the stretching abdominal muscles are under increased risk for incisional hernia because of the enlarging uterus.
• Previous Surgery: Through weak areas in the incision from surgery, tissue can push out to form such an incisional hernia.

Symptoms of Hernia:

• Signs of Hernia: The bulge will be visible: Lump which forms under skin and usually enlarges when standing up or strains.
• Pain or Discomfort: At some point in time, this makes it hurt anywhere from dull to sharp, particularly if one lifts things, coughs, or bends over.
• Feeling of Heaviness: Many describe pressure and dragging sensations felt in the problematic area.
• Burning or Gurgling Sensation: Certain hernias are associated with unusual sensations produced owing to the encasement of intestines or fat.
• Difficulty in Bowel Movements: If associated intestines have herniated, a person may suffer from either constipation or some amount of bloating.

Treatment for Hernia:

• Supportive Devices: Hernia belts or trusses may provide temporary relief but are not curative.
• Medications: Pain-relieving medications and acid-reducing drugs help relieve the symptoms.
• Surgical Repair: The last resort would be open or laparoscopic repair surgery, to either reinforce with stitches or cover with mesh.
• Emergency Surgery: Emergency treatment of strangulated hernia is warranted to avert life-threatening conditions.