A lumbar hernia is less common than other hernias, located at the flank and usually goes unnoticed until weight gain or straining.
Hernia
There are several kinds of hernias, but the all happen when pressure pushes an organ (often the intestine) through a weak spot in a muscle face or wall. Different kinds of hernias have different risk factors. 4/5 of all hernias are inguinal hernias, where the intestine (or occasionally the bladder) pushes through the lower abdominal wall-near or into the groin. Most of these occur in men, although they are also common in newborns because the abdominal walls in babies are weak.
Treatment for hernias can be no treatment, to medicines to surgery. Many hernias are not serious, although larger ones certainly can be, and complications can include an obstruction of the digestive tract. Modern surgical methods to treat hernias are much improved over older techniques and recovery times are much shorter.
Recently Answered
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An epigastric hernia is treated with surgery to repair the opening in the abdomen wall that runs between the breastbone and naval. Most epigastric hernia surgery can be scheduled; emergency surgery is rare. There are two types of hernia surgery—herniorrhaphy (one long incision) and laparoscopy (several small incisions). Having more than one epigastric hernia or severe symptoms can influence which surgery is used to treat your hernia.
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An epigastric hernia is a type of abdominal wall hernia. Although less common than an inguinal canal hernia, an epigastric hernia is more common in men than women. When an epigastric hernia does develop, it tends to cause a small bulge or lump in the front of the abdomen wall. Infants, children, and adults can develop or be born with an epigastric hernia.
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TriStar Greenview Regional Hospital answeredSee All 2 AnswersMost hernias are self-diagnosed. People notice something is not quite right, and then they usually go to their primary care provider for a physical exam. On exams, hernias are almost 100 percent diagnosable. Sometimes if the hernia is very small, an ultrasound might be needed to look at the area to see if there's indeed a hernia present. A computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan might be needed for further, more definitive evaluation on those people that are difficult to examine.
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See All 2 AnswersA hernia occurs when soft tissue bulges through a weak spot in the muscle wall, either in the abdomen or the groin. Usually, a hernia can appear out of the blue and begin to bother people by a nagging or a dull throbbing type pain. Although anyone can suffer from a hernia, some people are at higher risk. People with a chronic cough or folks who do a lot of heavy lifting in their jobs have a slightly higher risk. Pregnancy is another major risk factor for hernia.
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The most common type of abdominal wall hernia is an inguinal hernia. About 75 percent of all hernias are inguinal, which involves a portion of the intestine bulging through the abdominal wall and into or through the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal is located in the groin area. The inguinal canal is a natural passageway for blood vessels. In men, the spermatic cord also travels through the inguinal canal. In women, the inguinal canal contains a ligament that helps keep the uterus in place.
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Hernias can be life-threatening if they become incarcerated or strangulated.
An incarcerated hernia is one that becomes trapped outside the hernia wall. A strangulated hernia is an incarcerated hernia that become pinched or twisted and cut off from the blood supply. Gangrene (tissue death) can develop within hours.Hernias that cause small bowel obstruction can also lead to fatal medical conditions. Fortunately, most hernias affect the body in milder ways. Early detection and diagnosis are important ways to prevent a hernia from becoming life-threatening.
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St. Mark's Hospital answeredSee All 5 AnswersA hernia is a defect or weak spot in your muscular wall that allows the tissue and organs inside your abdomen to protrude outward. You can get a hernia from congenital defects. The most common area for hernias is the inguinal region, which is in the groin.
Most people with hernias notice them. First, there's either an uncomfortable feeling or bulge. Often, you'll have the bulge with no pain. But a lot of people will have some discomfort, usually at the end of the day. There might be an aching type of feeling that causes them to notice it more after they've been active. This is usually more noticeable in the groin. Any time you stress the hernia, you may also have some discomfort with it. Whether the hernia is at the belly button or the groin, or anywhere else, if you push something into it, it's likely to feel tender.
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When caring for someone with one or more epigastric hernias, it's important to remember that although the hernias may be small in size they can be uncomfortable. Any activity that puts pressure on the abdomen can cause the hernia to push forward or become painful. So helping to lift heavy objects is a good way to reduce the risk of pain with their epigastric hernia. Also help them to prepare or learn about eating healthy, well-balanced meals to prevent sudden weight gain or constipation. Make sure you're there to provide emotional support and physical support before and after their hernia surgery. It should be noted here, though, that if a patient has pain associated with their hernia, this is an indication to see the doctor as soon as possible.
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A pantaloon hernia can be painful. Make sure you consult a doctor or other medical professional about how to manage the hernia. Limiting or avoiding pressure or straining of the abdomen can help you minimize the pain. Limit bending motions, and ask your doctor about using ice packs to reduce the swelling under the skin. Because your hernia can affect you mentally and emotionally, seeking support from friends, family, or a support group is a good way to help you manage your concerns. Also remember to talk to your doctor about any pre- and post- surgery instructions to prevent complications with your hernia.