Hernias are painful bulges that can appear in many different parts of the body. Whether due to stress or prior disease, hernias should be treated immediately by your trusted gastroenterologist in Los Angeles. Some of the risk factors of hernias are well-known, but the most surprising causes of hernias are often the most common.
Surprising Causes of Hernias
Take a look at some of the biggest contributors, causes, and risk factors of hernias. Learn what to do if you are showing any signs.
Surgical History
Surgery is one of the more surprising contributors to hernias, especially if there is any leftover structural damage. If you are not completely healed, some of your internal structures can form incisional hernias. This is especially prevalent in abdominal surgery.
Incisional hernias can cause organs and the surrounding tissue to push through other areas of your body, causing severe pain and discomfort.
Birth Defects
Doctors don’t often think to look at a patient’s genetic history to determine the biggest risk factors of hernias in an individual. However, congenital defects can cause hernias in the body – specifically in the diaphragm.
Patients can also be predisposed to certain hernias and have weak areas in their body because of it. Any part of the body that is weaker than normal puts you at a bigger risk for the development of hernias or infections.
Constipation
Do you have trouble staying regular when going to the bathroom? If you apply force and pressure when trying to do your business, you might be at risk for a hernia in the bowels. This type of hernia usually occurs when part of the intestine becomes stuck in the abdominal wall. This will slowly push out over time, causing a lot of pain and discomfort.
Coughing
Did you know that a chronic cough can cause a hernia? If you are a chronic cougher, you might be putting a lot of strain on your lungs and internal organs. Most people with this kind of coughing problem are smokers, so try to find a way to adapt healthier habits into your life.
Pregnancy
While this poses a smaller risk than others on the list, pregnancy is a surprising cause of hernias that should be diagnosed right away. As the pregnancy grows, more and more pressure is placed on the internal organs, putting them at a bigger risk for developing hernial issues.
How to Reduce the Risk of Getting a Hernia
While some people are predisposed towards hernias, you can still reduce the risk of hernias by practicing good health and hygiene habits. Here are some tips that you can follow:
- Try lifting weights with your legs instead of your back or arms.
- Add more fiber to your diet to reduce constipation.
- Don’t lose or gain weight too rapidly.
- Try to quit smoking.
If your hernia does not affect your everyday life, you may not need a severe treatment option. However, most hernias cause continued pain and pressure over time, which can make it difficult for you to complete certain tasks.
Invest in the Best Intestinal Health Today
If you are dealing with sudden intense pain in the abdominal area, you may have developed a hernia. Learn more about the risks of a hernia and find out if you are a good candidate for hernia treatment in Los Angeles. A hernia can start with something subtle like some pain in your intestines, or in your groin. Over time, your muscle wall could tear, causing irreparable damage to your internal organs. It is important to seek treatment at the first sign or symptom that something is wrong. Visit our friendly experts at the office of Dr. Tabib today!