Hernia

A hernia is a bulge where an organ or tissue (often a loop of intestine) pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall that normally holds it in. Most hernias are in the abdominal wall and groin. They usually start small and enlarge over time.

Common types

• Inguinal hernia (groin) — much commoner in men.
• Femoral hernia (upper thigh) — commoner in women.
• Umbilical hernia (navel) — common in infants; also in adults with raised belly pressure.
• Incisional hernia — through an old surgical scar.
• Hiatal hernia — part of the stomach pushes into the chest (see GERD page).
• Epigastric and Spigelian hernias — less common.

Symptoms

• A lump or bulge — often worse on standing, coughing, lifting, straining; may disappear on lying down.
• A dragging or aching feeling.
• Sometimes no symptoms at all.

Red flags — dial 112 or go to hospital

• Hernia becomes suddenly painful, tender, firm, or does not push back in.
• Skin over the hernia becomes red or darker.
• Nausea, vomiting, inability to pass stool or wind.
• These suggest the bowel is trapped ("incarcerated") or its blood supply cut off ("strangulated") — surgical emergency.

Treatment

• Surgery is the only definitive cure. A reducible, pain-free, small hernia in an older adult may be watched; otherwise, repair is recommended to prevent emergencies.
• Laparoscopic (key-hole) repair is now common — smaller cuts, faster recovery.
• Open repair with mesh — still a standard, effective option.
• Surgery is widely available across Indian cities, towns and district hospitals; many government insurance and state health schemes cover hernia repair for eligible patients.
• Trusses (belts) are outdated and do not "cure" a hernia — they can even cause harm; avoid long-term use.