Types of Abdominal Hernia Explained in Plain Language
Understanding the different types of abdominal hernia can help you have a more informed conversation with your surgeon.
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia happens when part of an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle wall. Most hernias form in the abdomen, and they can affect men, women, and children. For many people, a hernia shows up as a soft bulge under the skin that may become more noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining.
A combination of muscle weakness and straining, such as with heavy lifting, can contribute to a hernia. Some people are also born with weaker abdominal muscles, which may raise their chance of developing one over time.
Common Types of Abdominal Hernia
There are several main types. Your surgeon decides which type you have based on where it is located and how it looks on a physical exam or imaging.
- Inguinal hernia (groin hernia). This is the most common type. It forms when tissue, often part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall near the groin. Inguinal hernias are more common in men but can occur in women and children too.
- Umbilical hernia. This type forms around the belly button. Part of the intestine or fatty tissue bulges through the abdominal wall near the navel. Umbilical hernias are often seen in infants but can also develop in adults.
- Incisional hernia. After abdominal surgery, the scar tissue left behind can be a weak point. An incisional hernia pushes through that old surgical scar. These hernias can range from small to quite large.
- Hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia is a condition in which the upper part of your stomach bulges through an opening in your diaphragm. The diaphragm is the thin muscle that separates your chest from your abdomen. This type of hernia can make it easier for stomach acid to travel upward, sometimes causing heartburn or other symptoms related to GERD.
- Epigastric hernia. This forms between the belly button and the lower part of the breastbone, where fatty tissue pushes through the abdominal wall.
If you feel a sudden, severe bulge that becomes very painful and cannot be pushed back in, that is a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away. This may mean the hernia is trapped, which can cut off blood supply to the tissue inside.
Want more information? Read our plain-language procedure guides or send an information request. We do not give medical advice.
What Causes a Hernia?
Often, the cause of a hernia involves some mix of muscle weakness and increased pressure in the abdomen. Factors that may raise the risk for many people include:
- Heavy lifting or straining
- Chronic coughing or sneezing
- Constipation and straining during bowel movements
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- A prior abdominal surgery
- Being born with weaker abdominal muscles
Age also plays a role. Muscles naturally lose some strength over time, so hernias become more common as people get older.
How Are Hernias Treated?
Treatment is usually surgery to repair the opening in the muscle wall. Not every hernia needs surgery right away. For some people with small hernias and no symptoms, a surgeon may suggest watching and waiting. For others, repair is recommended to prevent serious problems.
Surgery for hernia repair can be done in different ways. Open surgery involves one larger incision. Minimally invasive approaches, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques, use small cuts and specialized tools. With robotic surgery, a surgeon controls a robotic arm from a computer station, allowing small and precise movements through tiny incisions. Your surgeon decides which approach fits your situation best.
Untreated hernias can cause pain and health problems over time, so staying in touch with a qualified surgeon is important.
Finding a Qualified Surgeon in Los Angeles
If you are looking for hernia repair in Los Angeles or the surrounding area, you can confirm that any surgeon you consider holds a valid California medical license. Check a surgeon's California license at the Medical Board of California website at mbc.ca.gov. No outcome is promised with any surgical procedure, and all surgery carries risks including bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the most common type of hernia?
- The inguinal hernia, located in the groin, is the most common type. It forms when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall.
- Can a hernia go away on its own?
- Hernias do not heal on their own. For some small hernias without symptoms, a surgeon may recommend watchful waiting, but the hernia will not close without surgical repair. Talk to a qualified surgeon about what is right for your situation.
- When is a hernia a medical emergency?
- If a hernia bulge becomes suddenly very painful, turns red or dark, and cannot be pushed back in, call 911 or go to an emergency room immediately. This may mean the hernia is trapped and blood supply is cut off, which is a serious emergency.
- What is the difference between laparoscopic and robotic hernia repair?
- Both are minimally invasive approaches that use small incisions. In robotic surgery, the surgeon controls a robotic arm from a computer station, which can allow for very small, precise movements. Your surgeon decides which method is best suited to your hernia and overall health.
Sources
General information only. This article is not medical advice, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. This website is informational, is not a medical practice and names no doctor. Talk to a licensed physician about your own care. In an emergency call 911.