Ventral Hernia Information
Ventral hernias are also called incisional hernias. They are a protrusion that comes through the wall of an internal organ and bulges out of the abdomen. Ventral hernias are typically seen in people who have had abdominal surgery, are pregnant, or obese.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of ventral hernia can include an abdominal bulge, pain, nausea, vomiting, tenderness, inability to have bowel movements, and discomfort during activities which cause you to strain, such as coughing.
Causes
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Ventral hernia is caused by scar tissue which has thinned or stretched out. The scar tissue makes the abdominal wall weak which allows a hernia to form during abdominal straining.
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Diagnosis
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A ventral hernia is diagnosed through a physical exam during which the doctor checks for an abdominal bulge. You may be asked to cough which will force the hernia to bulge even more.
Treatment
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Treatment of ventral hernia includes a belt called a truss which patients wear to keep the hernia from bulging out. Surgery is also used to repair ventral hernias.
Self Care
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Prevent or reduce your risk of developing a ventral hernia by eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of liquids, exercising, not being overweight, and avoiding cigarette smoke and heavy lifting.
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