Hernias are protrusions through a weakness in the abdominal wall or in case of hiatal hernia, through the diaphragm. The protrusions are covered by the internal lining of the abdominal cavity, called the Peritoneum. Contents of the abdominal cavity push through this defect to lie in the sac in the erect posture and reduce back into the abdominal cavity on lying down or on gentle pressure.

A Hernia can happen at any age. You may be born with a hernia (Congenital) or it may be acquired from acute or repetitive muscle stress or strain. Both men and women can get a hernia.

There are several different types of hernias depending upon their location in the body. They may be present at birth or develop later in life. Hernias by themselves may be either asymptomatic (produce no symptoms) or they may cause slight to severe pain.

When the contents of the hernia bulges out, it can apply enough pressure that blood vessels in the hernia become constricted and the blood supply is cut off (Strangulation). This often leads to life-threatening conditions such as gangrene or peritonitis and may also result in the intestines becoming blocked (Obstruction) This would require life -saving emergency surgery.