Hernia Treatment Hernias are common and may affect men, women and children at any age. Although there are many types of hernia, modern surgical techniques ensure that repairs are safe, straighforward and usually long lasting. A hernia is a bulge caused by a weakness in muscles which form the front wall or abdomen.
Muscles can be weak from birth or become weak as part of the ageing process.
There are natural gaps in the muscles to accomodate blood vessels and other tissue. With a weakening of these muscles, the gaps may become big enough to allow the inner lining of the abdomen to push through. If this happens, a hernia is formed. They can also be caused by pressure on the muscles, for example through heavy lifting, sports activity or coughing. You may develop a hernia through being overweight, or if scars from previous surgery are overstretched.