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Abdominal Hernia

DEFINITION

A hernia is the protrusion of something from the inside of the body, generally the intestines, that creates a lump in the skin elsewhere in the body. In the case of abdominal or ventral hernia, the bulge is in the center of the abdomen. The bulge may be painful and annoying. An abdominal hernia is not dangerous, but can become dangerous if the intestines become trapped outside the abdomen (incarcerated hernia). Hernias need to be repaired if they are growing in size, are painful, or become incarcerated. Sometimes hernias occur as a result of weakness in the abdominal wall, high pressure in the abdomen, or a combination of both. Abdominal or ventral hernias can occur as a result of muscle weakness or prior abdominal surgery. The increased pressure in the abdomen can come from a variety of sources, like lifting heavy objects, straining with defecation, pregnancy, fluid in the abdomen, and being overweight. Hernias can become very serious if a loop of bowel gets stuck (incarcerated). Symptoms of an incarcerated hernia include intense pain, nausea, vomiting, and inability to pass a bowel movement. A hernia is called “strangulated” if the blood supply is cut off. This condition is also very serious and requires emergent surgical intervention.

SYMPTOMS
Visible bulge in the central abdomen, pain in the central abdomen

DIAGNOSIS
Your doctor will take a careful history about your problem, but most of the time the most important part of the diagnosis of hernia is the physical exam. Your doctor will feel in the area of your bulge to feel where it is coming from. He or she may have you bear down like you’re having a bowel movement or cough while examining you.

TREATMENT
The treatment of your hernia depends on your symptoms. If your hernia is not painful or a nuisance, your surgeon may wait and monitor the hernia over time. To fix the hernia surgically, a small incision is made in the abdomen then the abdominal contents are pushed back into the abdomen. The muscles are then sewn together to prevent future recurrence. In order to prevent hernias, you can eat high fiber foods, avoid lifting heavy objects, lose weight, and quit smoking.

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