Internal organs are held in place by layers of muscle and connective tissue that separate them from the outside world. When these muscles and tissues become thinner or weaker, a small tear can develop in the abdominal wall. Through this opening, internal structures most commonly parts of the intestine can protrude outward.
This is known as an inguinal hernia. In the early stages, it is usually harmless: the opening in the abdominal wall is small, and you may only notice a slight bulge. As the tear becomes larger, more abdominal contents can push through, causing the bulge to increase in size.
The internal organs are separated from the outside world by muscles and connective tissue. Sometimes these muscles and tissues become thinner and weaker. When this happens, a small tear can form in the abdominal wall. If a tear develops, the organs often the intestines may start to push outward.
This is called an inguinal hernia. In the early stages, this is usually harmless. The tear in the abdominal wall is small and only a small bump or bulge becomes visible. As the tear grows larger, more tissue can protrude, causing the bulge to increase in size.
Causes of an abdominal hernia
There are several possible causes for thinning or weakening of the abdominal wall. One common cause is congenital weakness.
The abdominal wall may also weaken as overall health declines for example due to smoking, which often leads to chronic coughing. This increases the pressure inside the abdomen. Increased abdominal pressure can also be caused by heavy physical exertion, sports, lifting, or straining during bowel movements. As a result, the abdominal wall may tear or an existing tear may enlarge.
Symptoms
There is an important distinction between an abdominal wall hernia and an inguinal hernia.
Abdominal wall hernia:
An abdominal wall hernia occurs in the abdominal region. It often develops when the abdominal wall is weakened or damaged, for example after surgery. This increases the likelihood that the abdominal wall will gradually split open.
Inguinal hernia:
An inguinal hernia, unlike an abdominal wall hernia, always occurs in the groin area (hence the name). The abdominal wall in the groin can also weaken and tear. However, an inguinal hernia may be congenital or develop due to excessive pressure on the abdominal wall.
Treating an abdominal hernia
What can you do about an inguinal or abdominal wall hernia? Can it be treated, and how? Is it possible to use a corset or elastic bandage to manage the symptoms?
For more information about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for an abdominal wall hernia or an inguinal hernia, click through below:
abdominal wall hernia
inguinal hernia
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