Hernia

Inguinal Hernias

Inguinal hernias are the most prevalent type and primarily affect men. They occur when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the inguinal canal, located in the groin. This type often presents as a bulge in the groin area, which may become more pronounced when standing or coughing.

Femoral Hernias

Less common than inguinal hernias, femoral hernias are more likely to affect women, particularly those who have been pregnant. They occur when tissue pushes through the femoral canal, located just below the groin.

Umbilical Hernias

Umbilical hernias occur around the navel and are common in infants, though they can also affect adults. In babies, this condition often resolves on its own as the abdominal muscles strengthen. However, in adults, surgical repair is usually necessary if the hernia becomes symptomatic.

Hiatal Hernias

Hiatal hernias occur when a portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This type is often associated with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), such as heartburn and difficulty swallowing.

Incisional Hernias

These hernias develop at the site of a previous surgical incision where the abdominal wall has been weakened. They can occur months or even years after surgery and are more common in individuals who are overweight or have undergone multiple abdominal surgeries.

Epigastric Hernias

Epigastric hernias appear in the upper abdomen, typically along the midline between the navel and the chest. They often consist of fatty tissue and are usually small, but they can still cause discomfort.