What Causes A Bowel Obstruction?

Hernias

A hernia is a condition where an individual's muscular wall that holds the abdominal organs in place or peritoneum becomes weakened or perforated. This perforation or weak spot allows the affected individual's internal organs to bulge outward. Areas where hernias commonly occur include an individual's groin, upper abdomen, belly button, and near any surgical scars. A hernia is less apparent in a patient when they are lying down flat, and more apparent when they are coughing or laughing. Most hernias do not produce symptoms, but straining, standing, and lifting heavy items can cause the affected individual to experience pain, vomiting, nausea, heartburn, and an inability to push the hernia back into place. When the intestine becomes lodged partway through the peritoneum, it can block food from passing or cause an intestinal obstruction. When an individual has an obstruction due to a hernia in their intestine, surgery is required for treatment.

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