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Hernia
This is a
protrusion through a weakness in the abdominal wall. It can be either external or
internal.
What to look for
swelling in the abdomen
or groin.
a heavy feeling in the
abdomen that is sometimes accompanied by constipation.
discomfort in the abdomen
or groin when lifting or bending over.
A hernia occurs when an
organ or tissue squeezes through a hole or a weak spot in a surrounding muscle. The most
common types are inguinal, incisional, and umbilical.
In an inguinal hernia, the
intestine or the bladder protrudes through the abdominal wall in the groin. Most hernias
are inguinal, and most occur in men because of a natural weakness in this area.
In an incisional hernia, a
hernia can develop at the site of an operation, the muscles have not healed properly.
In an umbilical hernia, the
location is near the naval. Common in newborns, it also afflicts obese women or those who
have had many children.
Causes
People can be born with
weaknesses that make them prone to develop a hernia. The condition can also develop from
heavy lifting, strenuous exercise or a persistent cough, poor nutrition, smoking, and
overexertion all can weaken muscles and make hernias develop.
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Anything that causes muscle
strain can then induce hernia, including obesity, lifting heavy objects, diarrhoea or
constipation, or persistent coughing… Ultimately, all hernias are caused by a
combination of muscle weakness and strain: A weak spot in the muscle tears under the
pressure of strain, and an internal organ or tissue then pushes through the tear.
A doctor's physical
examination is often enough to diagnose a hernia. Sometimes you will be able to feel it
yourself on the side of the abdomen or groin.
Traditional Treatment
In babies, umbilical
hernias frequently heal themselves within four years, making surgery unnecessary.
Usually, however surgery
will be required. It is important to get your hernia seen to by a doctor because if it is
left untreated, the protruding organ may become strangulated (have its blood supply cut
off), and infection and tissue death may occur as a result.
Alternative/Natural
Treatment
If you suspect you have a
hernia you must seek conventional treatment, as natural therapies will not eliminate a
hernia. Alternative treatments will however relieve the discomfort.
Homoeopathy - If
the hernia is on the right side of your body, take lycopodium
clavatum three times a day for a few days. For general hernias, take 6C or Calcarea
fluorata in tablet or liquid. If
the hernia is on the right side of your body, take lycopodium
clavatum three times a day for a few days. For general hernias, take 6C or Calcarea
fluorata in tablet or liquid.
Lifestyle - Gentle
exercise on a regular basis tones and strengthens stomach muscles. Gentle
exercise on a regular basis tones and strengthens stomach muscles.
Prevention
Take care to avoid becoming
overweight by practicing good nutrition and maintaining good muscle tone through exercise.
Also avoid putting unnecessary strain on abdominal muscles through lifting.
When to seek further
professional advice
you suspect that you have
a hernia.
you know you have a
hernia, and you are nauseated and vomiting or are unable to have a bowel movement or pass
gas.
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