6 Types of Hernias
Epigastric hernias
An epigastric hernia might occur in the epigastric region of the abdomen, which is found above the belly button and below the rib cage.
It is usually caused by a gap between the two sides of the abdominal muscles, which allows the fat tissue to push through the abdomen. 2 to 3 percent of all abdominal hernias are epigastric hernias. There are some newborns who might be even born with epigastric hernias.
Other types of hernias might develop in adults, because of muscle weakness and straining.
If you suffer from an epigastric hernia, you might be able to feel it when there is also pressure on the abdominal wall. This can happen when you cough, laugh and bear down to have a bowel movement.
You might also notice pain or tenderness around the area of the hernia. Many epigastric hernias are pretty small and they don’t come with any symptoms. Bigger hernias that cause symptoms might require surgery.
