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Hernia refers to any protrusion of an internal organ through a weakened muscle wall, commonly seen in the groin area, they can be umbilical, incisional, lumbar, or of any other type
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Your abdominal muscles protect the viscera from protruding out. In conditions that cause a weakening of the muscle wall, hernia becomes likely
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A history of prolonged, chronic cough may weaken the muscles and predispose you to a hernia. This cough may be due to tuberculosis, asthma, or even emphysema
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Nicotine affects the synthesis of collagen, a connective tissue that keeps your wall strong. Due to chronic smoking, this wall gradually becomes weak and makes it easier for an internal part to protrude through it
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Previous abdominal surgeries may weaken the muscle wall or nerves, especially after appendicitis or C-section, increasing the risk of hernia.
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An increase in the size of the prostate or prostate cancer can cause hernias, especially in the elderly.
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If you suffer from constipation for a very long time, it is likely that you have been straining during bowel movements. Such straining can weaken the wall and lead to a hernia
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If your abdominal wall is already weakened due to any reason, even lifting heavy weights can cause hernias. It is important to exercise, but not without proper technique
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While hernia is considered to be mostly a clinical diagnosis, doctors may order an ultrasound to rule out prostatic pathologies or any complications
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Hernias need to be treated surgically to prevent any complications that may occur later. Surgeons may ask you to quit smoking to prevent worsening of this condition