Hernia is an abnormal protrusion of intra-abdominal contents through the abdominal wall due to thinning or weakening of a particular region. Herniae in the groin are very common. These groin herniae can occur in any person without a reason but chronic cough, constipation, prostatic enlargement or lifting of heavy weights can pre-dispose to this condition.
Hernia can cause pain and sometime intestines can get caught in them necessitating emergency surgery.
These can be seen in infants and children too. All herniae will require surgical treatment whic is usually done by laparoscopic method with minimal pain.
Ventral hernia or incisional hernia is a hernia arising from a defect at a previously operated area which also will require laproscopic repair using a synthetic wire net.
Umbilical hernia is in the region of umbilicus which at times can cause trouble.
In summary all herniae require surgical treatment before they cause complications.