Protrusion of a segment of bowel from the abdomen. The adjective "uncomplicated" is acquired because the non-protruding anus is not affected by it; it can pass in and out of the orifice without damage to the bowel.
There are hereditary causes (congenital defects of the abdominal wall) and acquired causes (abdominal trauma). It is triggered by obesity, intense physical activity and chronic constipation.
It manifests as a lump on the abdominal wall. A common feature is that the lump increases in size when the patient stands up, has a bowel movement or coughs.
The diagnosis is made clinically, by questioning and physical examination, where the lump is seen on the abdominal wall.
As it is an uncomplicated hernia that doesn't affect intestinal perfusion, it doesn't require urgent treatment. The definitive treatment is surgical repair of the abdominal wall.
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