What causes hernia in children?

"Hernia" is a common disease that troubles some people, especially little boys. Hernia not only makes children feel very uncomfortable when defecating, but also other symptoms will appear. Some serious cases must be treated by surgery. So what is the cause of hernia in children when they are young? How to deal with hernia in children? Let me tell you!

Inguinal hernia is also known as "inguinal oblique hernia", commonly known as "small intestinal hernia". It is one of the most common diseases in pediatric surgery. Inguinal hernia mostly occurs in boys, which is closely related to the descent of the testicles and the closure of the processus vaginalis of the peritoneum. Therefore, the ratio of male to female occurrence is 25:1.

Children with inguinal hernia usually develop a lump in the groin (a triangular area at the junction of the inner thigh and the abdominal wall) after crying, standing or walking, or after fatigue. Boys often develop a lump in the scrotum. The contents of the mass are mostly small intestine or greater omentum, rather than gas, so it cannot be squeezed or pulled by hand. The lump is generally painless, but is accompanied by a feeling of distension or heaviness. Some lumps may disappear on their own after lying down or resting, or the lumps may be retracted into the abdominal cavity when you gently push them upward with your fingers, and bowel sounds may be heard at the same time. As the mass repeatedly moves in and out, the hernia may gradually increase in size and is often difficult to reduce or fully reduce into the abdominal cavity. If a child with an inguinal hernia suddenly experiences pain and cries, and soon afterwards develops nausea and vomiting, it is often the case that the hernia is incarcerated. If the child is not diagnosed and treated promptly, it may endanger his life and should be taken seriously.

Except for a very small number of children with small inguinal hernias who may heal themselves within 6 months of birth, the vast majority cannot heal themselves or be cured by medication or injections. The only cure is surgery. The best time to undergo surgery for inguinal hernia in children is between 1 and 2 years old. Before the age of 1, conservative treatment can be achieved by using a hernia support or hernia belt, but if incarceration occurs, emergency surgery is required.

Hernia in children cannot be ignored. If a child has this condition, it is best to take the child to a more formal and professional hospital for examination and treatment. Because many hernias can cause life-threatening situations for children if they are not treated in time, so taking necessary measures in a timely manner is the most correct choice.