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VERIFIED CONTENTAuthor: Klaudia Kierzkowska, graduate of chemistry at the University of Warsaw
Hernia is a relatively common condition which, although it can occur in anyone, is more often diagnosed in men. It causes discomfort, pain and a deterioration in the quality of functioning. According to many people, it can be underestimated and it is not always necessary to see a doctor. Are you sure? Here are facts and myths about a hernia.
A herniais the movement of organs or tissues outside the body cavity in which they would normally be located, through developed congenital or acquired orifices. A hernia can be located either under the skin (external hernia) or in adjacent body cavities (internal hernia). Many theories have arisen around the hernia that are not entirely true. Below we dispel all doubts.
12 facts and myths about hernia
The cause of the hernia is weak abdominal wall - TRUE
A hernia is an abnormal displacement and elevation of an organ or part of it. It usually arises for two reasons - weak abdominal walls or increased pressure within it. In some places, the abdominal walls are weaker, which favors the development of a hernia in the area.
Congenital hernia arises in utero - TRUTH
Congenital hernia occurs in the fetus and is associated with the abnormal development of the body cavity walls. This type of hernia is most often noticeable after birth. However, in some cases it may not appear until a few months old baby.
Obese people tend to hernia - TRUE
The connective tissue of obese people is weak and not very elastic. Over time, skin changes appear that can be compared to stretch marks.
When an obese person still gains weight, the muscles weaken more. The intestines need more space - they push themselves up. Under pressure, the intestines stretch the abdominal wall, which eventually ruptures and forms a hernia.
Prolonged cough may contribute to a hernia - TRUE
However, the formation of a hernia as a result of a long and persistent cough, usually associated with an earlier deterioration of enduranceabdominal wall. Likewise, people who suffer from chronic constipation are more likely to develop a hernia. The pressure that builds up in the abdomen during bowel movements can damage the abdominal wall.
Hernia may reverse on its own - FALSE
The resulting hernia will not reverse on its own, but on the contrary - it may enlarge if untreated. It can also become trapped - trapping the intestine causes the inhibition of intestinal passage, which is manifested by abdominal pain and flatulence. On the other hand, in the case of a collapsed hernia, the mesenteric vessels are constricted within the hernia.
Strangulated hernia is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Hernia can occur at any age - TRUE
Although the risk of hernia increases with age and it occurs more often in men than in women, people of all ages can struggle with it. Even in children, the shift of tissues or organs can occur.
Hernia doesn't always require a doctor's appointment - FALSE
The appearance of a hernia always requires a medical consultation. During the visit, the doctor will determine the condition, type of elevation and select the best treatment. The visit to the doctor should not be postponed, even if the bulge disappears when changing position.
Hernia symptoms are not specific - TRUE
The first symptoms of a hernia are not always associated with a lump in the abdomen or other body cavity. Initially, there may be discomfort in the area of the hernia. Pain sometimes worsening with exercise.
Hernia poses no he alth risk - FALSE
A hernia is not a self-resolving condition. The most dangerous condition for he alth is when a hernia becomes trapped. The intestines that have entered the hernial sac are unable to get out of it, and the squeezing hinders the flow of intestinal contents. There is pain in the abdomen, flatulence. If help does not come quickly, intestinal ischemia and necrosis can develop.
The hernia does not have to be visible to the naked eye - TRUE
Although it is not always visible to the naked eye, it can be felt with the hand very often. The hernia is in the form of a small tumor that is located under the surface of the skin. Additionally, it can cause pain, increasing during physical exertion, and also discomfort.
Surgery is an effective treatment method - TRUE
Surgery is an effective method of treating a hernia. During the operation, the doctor takes the contents of the hernial sac "to its place", eg into a cavityabdominal wall and stitching the abdominal wall.
You can't practice with a hernia - FALSE
If the hernia is not large and does not cause pain, there are no contraindications for some exercises, eg swimming, yoga. If you have an abdominal hernia, avoid abdominal exercises.
