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A hernia is a protrusion of an organ or tissue out of the body cavity in which it normally lies. By far the most common hernias develop in the abdomen, when a weakness in the abdominal wall evolves into a localized hole, or "defect", through which the protrusion occurs. These may present either with pain at the site, a visible or palpable lump, or in some cases by more vague symptoms resulting from pressure on an intraabdominal organ which has become "stuck" in the hernia. Fatty tissue usually enters a hernia first, but it may be followed by or accompanied by a segment of intestine or other intraabdominal organ. It is generally advisable to repair hernias in a timely fashion, in order to prevent complications which include intestinal blockage, gangrene, and death. Most hernias can be surgically repaired. Recovery rarely requires long-term changes in lifestyle.
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