K44: Diaphragmatic hernia
A diaphragmatic hernia is a medical condition where there is an abnormal opening or hole in the diaphragm, which is the muscle that helps with breathing by separating your chest cavity from your abdomen. This abnormal opening can allow parts of your internal organs, typically your stomach, intestines, or liver, to move upwards into your chest cavity. This displacement can interfere with normal lung development, particularly if the condition is present at birth. Symptoms can vary widely, ranging from severe breathing difficulties shortly after birth, to mild respiratory issues or gastrointestinal problems in adults. Progression of the disease is largely dependent on the size of the hernia and the extent of organs displacement. It can worsen over time if not treated, potentially leading to life-threatening complications. Notably, diaphragmatic hernias are not contagious, they typically occur sporadically or are congenital, meaning they are present from birth.
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