Hernia Causes

Although abdominal hernias can be present at birth, others develop later in life. Some involve pathways formed during fetal development, existing openings in the abdominal cavity, or areas of abdominal-wall weakness.

• Any condition that increases the pressure of the abdominal cavity may contribute to the formation or worsening of a hernia. Examples include



• obesity,



• heavy lifting,



• coughing,



• straining during a bowel movement or urination,



• chronic lung disease, and



• fluid in the abdominal cavity.



• A family history of hernias can make you more likely to develop a hernia.