What Causes a Hernia?

There are a number of factors that may increase the risk of developing a hernia, including pregnancy, obesity and age (the muscles in the stomach wall become weaker with age). Strains increase the pressure on the abdomen and increase the chances of a hernia, and may be brought about by the following actions:

• lifting, carrying or pushing a heavy load
• persistent heavy coughing
• straining to urinate
• straining to produce a bowel movement
• injury
• surgery