Abdominal wall hernia

An abdominal wall hernia, also known as a ventral hernia, is a tear or weakened area in the abdominal wall through which abdominal tissue or part of an organ can protrude. The abdominal wall is made up of muscles and connective tissue that normally keep the abdominal organs in place. When a hernia develops, it may cause a visible bulge that is often more noticeable during physical activity, lifting, or coughing. An umbilical hernia is a common type of abdominal wall hernia in which the bulge develops around the belly button. In many cases, an abdominal wall hernia causes few or no symptoms at first but may gradually become larger and more noticeable over time.