A diaphragmatic hernia is a birth defect in which there is an abnormal opening in the diaphragm, the muscle that helps you breathe. The opening allows part of the organs from the belly (stomach, spleen, liver, and intestines) to go up into the chest cavity near the lungs.
Hernia - diaphragmatic; Congenital hernia of the diaphragm
A diaphragmatic hernia is caused by the improper joining of structures during fetal development. As a...
Read moreSource: ADAM Encyclopedia
The diaphragm is a large dome-shaped muscle that separates the chest cavity (where your heart and lungs are) from the belly area. The diaphragm is a... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
References Ehrlich PF, Coran AG. Diaphragmatic hernia. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics.... Read more »
Source: Harvard Decision Guide
Prevention To prevent hernias associated with increased abdominal pressure, avoid activities that cause abdominal strain, such as lifting... Read more »
Source: Harvard Decision Guide
Prevention Indirect hernias in children cannot be prevented. To reduce the risk of inguinal hernia as an adult, you can: Maintain a normal... Read more »
Source: Harvard Decision Guide
Prevention It is difficult to prevent hiatal hernias. However, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking. To prevent... Read more »