Ventral Hernia

Abdomen | Gastroenterology | Ventral Hernia (Disease)


Description

A hernia is a weakness in the wall or a perforation of muscle tissue or membrane that normally keep a body in its natural cavity. In case of abdominal hernia, abdominal organs (especially the small intestine) stick out of the abdominal cavity through weak areas of the layer of muscles that make the wall.

Hernia forms a swelling (swelling) more or less voluminous belly, it may increase ( cough, exercise) or decrease (in bed) can be reducible (easily pushed back), supple to the touch and often painless. In case of large hernias, they may complicate a sudden can cause strangulation and bowel blockage (transit stops, vomiting, bloating), if the hernia is formed by a piece of intestine. Hernia, in this case, stands permanent, cannot be reduced and remain strong and sensitive to palpation, signs which are added those of an intestinal occlusion (vomiting food, then bile green, off seats).

Causes and Risk factors

There are several types of stresses and demands of the body that can cause hernias: violent and persistent cough or sneeze; obesity or sudden weight increase; task; lifting heavy objects; diarrhea or constipation that require abdominal muscles. If this condition occurs after surgery is called a eventration. This defect occurs after a poor surgical wound healing associated with a number of factors (obesity, age, general debility, postoperative complications, treatment with steroids, anticoagulants).

Diagnosis and Treatment

If the hernia is small and reducible, we recommend a conservative treatment is to exercise that aims at increasing abdominal muscle tone, wearing a girdle and avoid heavy lifting and coughing effort. If is a large and irreducible hernia it is necessary urgent surgery. A diet based on fiber from fruits, vegetables and grains. They ensure normal transit, eliminating constipation and gas accumulation in the bowels.

Hernias occur with increased frequency in overweight or obese, so you need a healthy diet and exercise program. Lifting weights cause a hernia. Pressure being put on the abdominal muscles may be too high, so that muscle fibers may tear. Following surgery on the abdomen, the risk increases greatly. ...