Hernias can occur through a combination of weak abdominal muscles and increased pressure within the abdominal cavity. They can result from obesity or coughing.

As a result, small parts of the bowel herniate or rupture outward through the inguinal or femoral canals in the general area of the groin.

Exercise is vital to maintain the strength of the abdominal muscles. Walking, jogging, running, bicycling, and swimming are at least as important as direct exercises to strengthen the abdomen.

Weight control helps improve muscle tone and desrease stress.

Quitting smoking is extremely important because the chronic smoker’s cough more than doubles the risk of a hernia.