A hernia, or rupture, is a common condition. It results from a tear or weakness within the body wall. The abdominal contents are then permitted to pass through the "defect".
Although commonly affecting men, women may also suffer from hernias.
As well as being unsightly, the hernia may cause problems of pain and complications from its contents.
Complications from a hernia include:
Pain - This may be due to stretching of the tissues by the enlarging hernia. It is generally relieved by supporting the hernia and reducing the contents.
Severe pain may indicate strangulation.
Irreducibility - Also known as incarceration; is the state of permanency of the hernia. It cannot be reduced and remains as a bulge.
This indicates that the hernia has enlarged beyond the defect or has become adherent to the underlying tissues.
Intestinal obstruction - This may occur with or without strangulation. The bowel becomes "kinked" and unable to function normally
Strangulation - If the blood supply to the hernia contents becomes compromised they will suffer gangrene. This is a surgical emergency as prompt treatment is lifesaving.