A hernia is when an organ protrudes through the wall of the cavity where it normally resides. If you feel or know you have a hernia, consult your primary care physician immediately. Your primary care physician can refer you to a general surgeon, such as Dr. Hany Tadros in the Marshall County Professional Building, for immediate attention.
What are the different types of hernias?
- Inguinal hernia is the most common. This occurs when part of your bowel squeezes through your lower abdomen into the groin.
- Femoral hernia happens when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through into the groin at the top of the inner thigh.
- Incisional hernia is when tissue pushes through a surgical wound in the abdomen that has not completely healed.
- Umbilical hernia is when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through the abdomen close to your belly button (navel).
- Muscle hernia is when part of your muscle pushes through the abdomen after a sports injury.
What are the risk factors for a hernia?
- Smoking
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Peritoneal dialysis
- Collagen vascular disease
- Previous appendectomy
Commonly, hernias are found in the area of the abdomen. If left untreated, hernias can lead to complications such as:
- Inflammation
- Obstruction
- Strangulation of the bowel
Patients can discuss their risk factors and symptoms with a board-certified physician, such as Dr. Hany Tadros at Reynolds Memorial Hospital. For more information, call 304-845-3033.