Hernia (Check if have lumps sticking out in abdominal regions)

It is when there is pressure and/or weakness to the diaphragm muscles that allow the stomach to enter the area above the diaphragm instead of remaining securely below the diaphragm , where it belongs (hiatal hernia).

• The diaphragm is a powerful muscle that separates the upper chest cavity from the abdominal compartments. It has an opening through which the oesophagus connects with the stomach, as the oesophagus is normally above the diaphragm, while the stomach is normally below the diaphragm.

It can also occur when one has part of their intestine sticking out pressing against the skin and can occur anywhere in the abdomen and scrotal/vaginal region.

• One may push it back in (reducible hernia) while others can’t (irreducible hernia).
• The latter may cause obstruction in the bowels and/or alter blood supply to intestine (strangulated hernia).

There are many types:

• Inguinal hernia – hernia in groin region (most common)
• Femoral hernia – hernia in groin region (mainly women)
• Umbilical hernia– hernia just below belly button (common in infants)
• Hiatus hernia:
  • Sliding hernia-the most common hiatus hernia where  the upper part of the stomach is pushed upward into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm
  • The hernia can change the position of the lower oesophageal sphincter valve, allowing the contents of the stomach to backflow into the oesophagus thus  causing heartburn and/or indigestion symptoms.
  • The Paraesophageal hernias is least common but more dangerous (where the stomach is squeezed next to the chest and/or oesophagus.
• Muscle hernia – Abdominal hernia and leg hernia
• Spigelian hernia – hernia one side of abdomen just below belly button
• Incisional hernia – Hernia after abdomen surgery

Sports Hernia

Sports hernia due to lower abdominal activity has a slow onset and is relieved by rest.

Features need to be present are:

• Pinpoint tenderness to the pubic tubercle (pain, swelling, and tenderness right over the pubis. the pain may go into the groin area) at the conjoint tendon insertion
• Pain and tenderness over the deep inguinal ring (area just on the left or right of the abdomen, below the tummy)
• Pain at the adductor longus tendon (down inside the leg).
• Dull diffuse groin pain that often radiates to perineum (area between the anus and the scrotum) and inner thigh across the midline.
• General tips and treatments:
  • 6-8 weeks rest periods
  • Pain medication (if suitable, see your Medical Doctor to rule out any other causes/conditions)
  • General tips