A hernia occurs when part of the contents of a body cavity, usually the intestines, protrudes through a weak point or tear in the thin muscular wall that holds the contents in place. Protrusions can be as small as a piece of fat, such as from the abdomen, or as large as a section of intestines.
Hernias are classified depending on where the protrusion occurs.
The following types of hernia can occur within the abdominal cavity:
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inguinal—these hernias occur within the groin region when intestines push through the muscle fibres
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femoral—these hernias appear in the uppermost part of the thigh when a section of intestines (part of bowel) push through the muscle
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umbilical—these hernias involve a part of the gut protruding through a weakness around the belly button
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incisional—the scarline following abdominal surgery is structurally weaker than other areas and thus can be a location for hernias.
Symptoms and characteristics:
A hernia can become ‘strangulated’ when it’s blood supply becomes restricted. This generally results in pain, especially to physical pressure over the area.
Other symptoms of hernia vary depending on location and size, but may include:
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a lump or swelling at the site of the hernia especially prominent when standing
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pain
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abdominal pain, aching or discomfort especially if restricted, such as when bending over, lifting or carrying heavy items
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a change in digestive habits including diarrhoea and constipation
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the hernia being most obvious when coughing, straining or when standing and least obvious when lying down.
Almost all hernias require surgical repair to the muscle wall to restrict further damage.
For more information on some of these symptoms and characteristics, follow this link:
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
People who undergo surgery for hernias may need some alterations to tasks or the work environment to accommodate for recommended physical restrictions. Restrictions will depend on:
Generally heavy lifting, climbing or pushing is not recommended within 6 to 8 weeks of surgery, however specific workplace assessment is recommended to best determine needs based on medical advice (Better Health Channel 2007; MDA Internet 2005-2008).
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
References:
Better Health Channel 2007, Hernias explained, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, viewed 30 January 2009, http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Hernias_explained?open
MDA Internet 2005-2008, Hernia, Inguinal and Femoral, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 30 January 2009, http://www.mdainternet.com (secure site)
MDA Internet 2005-2008, Hernia, Umbilical, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 30 January 2009, http://www.mdainternet.com (secure site)
MDA Internet 2005-2008, Hernia, Incisional, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 30 January 2009, http://www.mdainternet.com (secure site)