One of the most common conditions that require surgery is a hernia. Over 2.3 million hernia-related surgeries were performed in America between 2001 and 2010.
In fact, hernias are so common that chances are you or someone you know has had one. Some of these hernias are more common than others, and some can be dangerous to your health and wellbeing if left untreated.
Knowing the different types of hernias can help you in getting the best possible treatment. Read on to learn more about the different types of hernias.
5 Common Types of Hernias
A hernia is an abnormal protrusion of an organ, tissue, or other body structure through a weakened area in the muscle or surrounding membrane. Hernias can occur anywhere in the body but are most common in the abdomen.
There are five main types of hernia: hiatal, inguinal, femoral, umbilical, and incisional.
Hiatal
A paraesophageal hiatal hernia is a protrusion of the stomach through the diaphragm. This is the most common type of hernia.
Inguinal
An inguinal hernia is a tissue or organ protrusion through an opening in the groin area. This is the most common type of hernia in men.
Femoral
A femoral hernia is a tissue or organ protrusion through an opening in the upper thigh near the groin area. This type of hernia is more common in women. It may also be referred to as a groin hernia.
Umbilical
An umbilical hernia is a protrusion of the umbilicus (navel) through the abdominal wall. This type of hernia is more common in infants and young children.
Incisional
An incisional hernia is a protrusion of abdominal viscera through a surgical incision that has not yet healed. This type of hernia can occur after any abdominal surgery.
Less Common Types of Hernias
There are also a few less common types of hernias, including:
Bochdalek: A bochdalek diaphragmatic hernia occurs when the diaphragm does not form properly during fetal development. This type of hernia is present at birth.
Morgagni: A morgagni diaphragmatic hernia occurs when the sternum and ribs do not form properly during fetal development. This type of hernia is present at birth.
Spigelian: A spigelian hernia occurs through a muscle defect in the abdominal wall.
Lumbar: A lumbar hernia occurs through a lower back muscle defect.
Epigastric: An epigastric hernia occurs through a muscle defect between the ribs and the navel.
Recurrent: A recurrent hernia occurs at the same site as a previous hernia.
Strangulated: A hernia trapped in the abdominal wall and cut off the blood supply to the protruding tissue. This is a medical emergency.
Hernia Treatment
There are a few different ways that hernias can be treated, depending on the type of hernia and the severity of the condition.
Hernias can often be diagnosed with a physical examination. Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis.
Surgery may sometimes be necessary to repair the hernia and prevent further complications. However, non-surgical hernia repair treatments can also be effective for certain types of hernias.
What to Do if You Think You Have a Hernia
Each type of hernia has its unique symptoms and treatment options. If you think you may have a hernia, see a doctor or surgeon as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose you and recommend the best course of treatment.
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