Hernia is a medical condition in which an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. It commonly occurs in the abdomen, especially in areas where the abdominal wall is naturally thinner. Hernias can affect people of all ages and may develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the cause.

The most common types of hernias include inguinal hernia (in the groin), umbilical hernia (around the navel), incisional hernia (at the site of a previous surgery), femoral hernia (below the groin, more common in women), and hiatal hernia (in the diaphragm, where part of the stomach moves into the chest cavity). Among these, inguinal hernias are the most frequent, particularly in men.

Hernias usually appear as a bulge that becomes more noticeable when coughing, lifting heavy objects, or standing for long periods. Symptoms may include discomfort, pain, heaviness, or swelling in the affected area. In some cases, hernias may be painless but still visible. A reducible hernia can be gently pushed back inside, whereas an irreducible (incarcerated) hernia cannot.

A serious complication is strangulation, in which the blood supply to the herniated organ is cut off. This leads to severe pain, vomiting, fever, and requires emergency surgery to prevent tissue damage.

Diagnosis is primarily based on physical examination; imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used in complicated cases. Hernias do not heal on their own; treatment is necessary to prevent worsening.