Causes of Hernia

A hernia happens when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue that normally holds it in. It is most often seen in the abdomen and groin.

Why the wall gives way

A hernia needs two things: a weak area in the muscle wall, and pressure that pushes contents against it.

Causes of weakness

• Present from birth: for example, a gap near the navel or the groin canal that did not close fully, which is why hernias are common in babies.
• Ageing: muscles become thinner and weaker with age.
• Previous surgery: a scar can weaken the wall and lead to an incisional hernia.
• Injury to the abdomen.
• Weakness from smoking, poor nutrition, steroid use or chronic illness, which slow healing and reduce tissue strength.

Causes of pressure

• Heavy lifting, especially with poor technique
• Straining with constipation or when passing urine, for example with an enlarged prostate
• Persistent cough, such as in smokers or chronic lung disease
• Pregnancy, which stretches the abdominal wall
• Obesity, which raises pressure inside the abdomen
• Fluid in the abdomen (ascites)
• Repeated vomiting or sneezing

Who is at higher risk

Men are far more likely to have inguinal hernias. People with a family history, premature babies and those who have had a hernia before are also at higher risk.

Hiatal hernia

Part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest. Obesity, ageing and pregnancy are common causes.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes swelling in the groin and abdomen under antravriddhi, linked to vata. This is an interpretive framework and not a proven explanation.

Key point

Hernias do not heal on their own, but avoiding strain and treating constipation and cough may reduce the pressure on the weak spot.

Before your appointment

Note when you first noticed the bulge, whether it goes in when you lie down, and what brings it on, such as lifting, coughing or straining. List any pain, vomiting, constipation or urinary problems, and past surgeries. Bring your medicines, including blood thinners, and past reports. Ask about repair options, recovery and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.