A hernia is a medical condition that occurs when an internal organ pushes through an open area in the muscle or tissue that is responsible for holding it in place. One of the most common examples of hernia is intestines pushing through a weakened muscle in the abdominal wall.
Hernias usually occur in the abdomen, but they can also occur in the groin area, upper thigh, or on the belly button. Hernias are not life-threatening but they need medical attention and sometimes surgery in which they can be repaired using a surgical mesh.
It is important to understand the degree of hernia injury because certain hernias will require surgery. And if you’re not careful, surgery can lead to a hernia mesh injury. If that happens, the only way you can get compensated is through a hernia mesh lawsuit.
The Most Common Types of Hernias
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when a part of your stomach breaks through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This hernia is common in aged people and is almost always caused by acid reflux in the stomach.
Inguinal Hernia
An inguinal hernia is the most common type of hernias. They occur when the intestines break through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall. This hernia is usually common in men.
Incisional hernia
An incisional hernia occurs after you’ve had any kind of abdominal surgery. The intestines push through the incision scar, weakened tissue or the surrounding.
Umbilical Hernia
An umbilical hernia usually occurs in babies who are under 6 months of age. The intestines can bulge through the abdominal wall near the belly button. This is the only kind of hernia that usually goes away on its own as the muscles get stronger.
What are the Main Causes of Hernias?
Hernias are caused by a combination of strain and weakened muscles. Hernias don’t always develop immediately, sometimes they can take time to occur.
Here are some of the most common causes of hernia
- Damage from surgery
- Age
- Chronic coughing
- Lifting heavyweights
- Being overweight
- Fluid in abdomen
- Being pregnant
- Being constipated
One of the most common causes of hernia is being overweight. This is why it is important to make sure that you stay fit. Try and find a goal-oriented program that lets you lose weight gradually.
How is a Hernia Treated?
Whether you need treatment or not will depend on the size of the hernia you have. The doctor examines your case with specialized gear and then lets you know your options. Sometimes a hernia can be treated by changing your lifestyle or consuming medication.
But most of the time, a hernia needs to be patched up using a surgical mesh. The doctor performs a surgery where he/she uses a surgical mesh acquired from hernia mesh manufacturers. This can often lead to complications if the mesh was not carefully patched into the affected area. Sometimes the mesh itself can be low-quality which leads to hernia mesh injury.
If you feel you’ve had a hernia mesh surgery go wrong, talk to a medical malpractice lawyer for your options.
