2. Hernias: When the Wall Gives Way
We often hear about hernias, especially in the context of heavy lifting. But what precisely are they? In essence, a hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. Most commonly, these are seen in the abdomen, but they can occur elsewhere too.
Now, you might wonder, how does a hernia relate to bowel obstruction? Well, let’s look at it this way. The intestines are held securely within the abdominal cavity. However, if there’s a weak spot or tear in the abdominal wall, parts of the intestine can protrude out. When this happens, there’s a potential for the protruding intestine to get trapped, leading to obstruction.
But hernias don’t just pop up overnight. Factors like congenital conditions, aging, chronic coughing, or strain on the abdominal wall can lead to their development. Not all hernias will cause symptoms. Some might just present as a visible bulge, often more prominent when standing or straining.
One might wonder, is every bulge a hernia? Not necessarily. There are different types of hernias, each with its own set of characteristics. But when they do cause obstruction, the symptoms can be distressing. A segment of the intestine gets trapped, causing blockage and potential complications. (2)
