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Photograph of a male patient waiting in an exam room

Also called: Enterocele

A hernia occurs when part of an internal organ bulges through a weak area of muscle. Most hernias occur in the abdomen. There are several types of hernias, including

  • Inguinal, the most common type, is in the groin
  • Umbilical, around the belly button
  • Incisional, through a scar
  • Hiatal, a small opening in the diaphragm that allows the upper part of the stomach to move up into the chest.
  • Congenital diaphragmatic, a birth defect that needs surgery

Hernias are common. They can affect men, women and children. A combination of muscle weakness and straining, such as with heavy lifting, might contribute. Some people are born with weak abdominal muscles and may be more likely to get a hernia.

The usual treatment for a hernia is surgery to repair the opening in the muscle wall. Untreated hernias can cause pain and health problems.

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National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services 		Date last updated: 23 December 2009
Topic last reviewed: 28 July 2009