*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or view any of our Previous A to Z Features.

You should also know that OutUK has produced a special report about: Coronavirus Covid-19.

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This Week - H : Hernia

Types of hernia

Most hernias develop in the tummy (abdomen) or groin (where your legs join your abdomen). Some cause a lump under your skin, while others are internal and cannot be seen.

Some improve on their own but others may need surgery.

Symptoms of a hernia

The symptoms caused by a hernia depend on where it is and how long you've had it.

Some common symptoms of a hernia include:

a bulge or lump where the hernia is, such as where your legs join your abdomen (groin), upper thigh or tummy - the lump may get bigger when you cough, sneeze or cry, and get smaller when you lie down
the skin over the lump seeming tight and stretched
a heavy, dragging feeling in your leg from a femoral or inguinal hernia
indigestion symptoms such as heartburn or reflux from a hiatus hernia
pain in or around the hernia, usually with smaller hernias - this can be a sign of strangulation, when your muscle tightens around your internal organs

Although a large hernia may look uncomfortable, it may not be painful because the weak area of muscles becomes stretched, allowing the hernia to pass through it easily.

See a GP if:

you think you have a hernia

They may refer you for tests or treatment if needed.

Get help from NHS 111 if:

You have a hernia and:

pain in or around the hernia
a bloated tummy
you feel sick (nausea) or you're being sick (vomiting)
you're vomiting blood or your vomit looks like coffee grounds
you're constipated
you have a high temperature, or you feel hot, cold or shivery
you've suddenly become confused

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Treatment for a hernia

The treatment you're offered for your hernia depends on the type you have, what caused it, and whether it's a new hernia or it's come back after treatment.

Possible treatment for a hernia include:

medicines to help the indigestion symptoms of a hiatus hernia
losing weight, if you're overweight
surgery to repair the hernia

Find out more

Living with a hernia guide (British Hernia Society)

How to prevent a hernia

You cannot always prevent a hernia, but there are things you can do to reduce your chance of getting some types.

Do

try to lose weight if you're overweight, and keep to a healthy weight
be physically active - aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week
try to quit smoking, if you smoke
see a GP if you have a cough that does not get better or keeps coming back

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We'll have more information and advice next week on another topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this week's subject you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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