Male Health
Hernia
A hernia occurs when part of the intestines bulge through a weak spot in the wall of the abdomen. Hernias are usually treated with surgery to repair the abdominal wall and can be quite painful.
Hernias can be caused by:
- Lifting heavy objects
- Sudden weight gain
- Constipation
The most common type of hernia is an inguinal hernia. In an inguinal hernia, part of the intestines protrudes through the abdominal wall into the inguinal canal, near your groin. When a health care provider asks you to "turn your head and cough," s/he is checking for this kind of hernia.
More information on a hiatal hernia
More information on an inguinal hernia
Last Reviewed: December 2004
More information on an inguinal hernia
Last Reviewed: December 2004
