The National Health Statistics estimates that about five million people in the United States have an abdominal hernia. "Hernia" refers to a bulge or tear in the abdominal muscle, which can allow the inner lining of the abdomen to push through the weakened area. This can allow parts of the intestine or abdominal tissue to push through into the bulge formed by the weakened area. In addition to the severe pain that a hernia can cause, serious complications may require emergency surgery.

A hernia can develop in anyone - from a newborn to a senior citizen. Factors that may increase an individual’s risk for developing a hernia by straining or increasing pressure on the abdominal wall include:

• A chronic cough, such as smoker's cough
• Obesity
• Straining during bowel movements or while urinating
• Pregnancy
• Straining to lift heavy objects
• Persistent sneezing, such as that caused by allergies

Some different types of abdominal hernia include:

Epigastric hernia occurs as a result of a weakness in the muscles of the upper-middle abdomen, above the navel. It occurs more often in men and mostly in people between the ages of 20 and 50.

Umbilical hernia occurs in babies, children and adults.

Inguinal hernia occurs in the groin (the area between the abdomen and thigh). It is called "inguinal" because the intestines push through a weak spot in the inguinal canal, which is a triangle-shaped opening between layers of abdominal muscle near the groin. Symptoms of inguinal hernia may include a lump in the groin near the thigh; pain in the groin; and, in severe cases, partial or complete blockage of the intestine.

Incisional hernia can occur at the site of an incision from a previous surgery. The fat or tissue pushes through a weakness created by the surgical scar. An incisional hernia can occur months or years after the initial surgery.

A hernia will not get better by itself over time. If it worsens, complications may arise, such as intestinal strangulation. This blockage may cause blood in the stool, constipation, fever, severe pain, vomiting, and even shock. Not all treatments are appropriate for every case, yet here are a few common treatments:

• Traditional hernia repair surgery involves making an incision in the abdominal wall around the hernia, moving the hernia back into the abdomen, then closing and reinforcing the abdominal wall. This often can be performed as outpatient surgery.
• Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure for hernia treatment that uses a fiberoptic viewing tube and special instrument to avoid making a large incision. This typically can require less recovery time than traditional surgery.
• A Supportive Truss is an elastic band the helps to hold the hernia inside the abdomen, can be helpful if the symptoms are mild. This may help control the hernia but not heal it.

If you have a hernia there are many things you can do to help prevent your condition from worsening. The AMA recommends avoiding lifting, pushing or pulling heavy objects. Also, quitting smoking is highly recommended: smoker's cough has been identified as a significant contributor to the development or worsening of a hernia. Drink at least eight glasses of water and eat a high-fiber diet that includes grains, whole grain bread, cereal, bran and raw fruits and vegetables to help relieve constipation. Maintain a healthy weight and exercise to tone muscles of the abdomen and seek medical help for chronic constipation, allergies, or a chronic cough.

People who have had a hernia may be at higher risk for future hernia problems; however, taking the steps outlined above can reduce that risk. If you have had a hernia, see your doctor early and ask what you can do to avoid a recurrence.