A hernia might appear as a harmless lump or cause only mild discomfort in the beginning, but it’s a condition that should never be taken lightly. While it may start as a subtle protrusion or dull ache, it can quickly develop into a painful, sometimes life-threatening issue if left untreated.
Understanding what a hernia is, recognizing its symptoms, and seeking timely treatment are key to managing it effectively.
What is a Hernia?
Hernias develop when internal pressure causes an organ or fatty tissue to bulge through a weakened section of muscle or connective tissue. Consider this to be the same as the bulge that appears in a weakened outer rubber tire; since the outer becomes weakened, pressure from within may push something through.
Symptoms of a Hernia
The most common symptom of a hernia is a visible lump in the affected area. The bulge becomes obvious when standing, straining, or lifting and disappears while lying down. Other frequent symptoms are:
- Pain or discomfort that worsens when bending, coughing, or lifting objects.
- A dragging or heavy feeling in the abdomen
- A swollen or sore feeling where the hernia is located.
- In more serious instances, nausea, vomiting, or intestinal obstruction (suggestive of strangulated hernia)
Types of Hernias
Hernias can be in various forms based on their location and cause:
- Inguinal Hernia
The most common type, particularly in men. It happens in the groin when a section of the intestine pushes through a weakened part of the lower abdominal wall.
- Femoral Hernia
Less frequent and more likely to occur in women, this type appears just below the groin and can be confused with an inguinal hernia.
- Umbilical Hernia
It occurs close to the belly button and is found more in babies, but grown-ups can have them too when they are very fat or are pregnant.
- Hiatal Hernia
This condition occurs when part of the stomach shifts upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
- Incisional Hernia
It may occur at an old surgical cut where the muscle wall of the abdomen has grown weak.
Causes of Hernia
Hernias often develop when pressure increases and the muscles become weak. Contributing factors include:
- Chronic sneezing or coughing
- Obesity
- Heavy lifting without good technique
- Constipation and straining during defecation
- Pregnancy
- Previous abdominal surgery
In a few instances, hernias can be congenital, or present at birth, due to a defect in the abdominal wall.
Treatment Options
The treatment approach depends on the hernia’s type, size, and severity.
- Watchful Waiting
If the hernia is small and painless, physicians can suggest keeping it under observation from time to time.
- Hernia Truss
A supportive undergarment can be used to temporarily alleviate symptoms, but it is not a cure.
- Surgical Repair
Most hernias will need surgery at some point. The two most common ways to fix a hernia with surgery are:
- Open surgery: In open surgery, the surgeon cuts near the hernia to reach and fix the problem.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure through small cuts and a camera.
A mesh is often used in both types of surgery to support the weak spot.
Why Ayushman Hospital & Health Services?
At Ayushman Hospital & Health Services, our vision is to provide world-class care with passion and expertise. We have expert surgeons and healthcare professionals who are experts in the latest hernia diagnosis and minimally invasive procedures that promote quick recovery and long-term outcomes. Having cutting-edge equipment and a patient-centric philosophy to back us, Ayushman Hospital is your one-stop destination for secure, successful, and tailored hernia care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Will a hernia heal by itself?
No, hernias do not heal by themselves and usually need to be surgically corrected.
Q2: Are hernias dangerous?
Not life-threatening at first, but hernias can cause complications such as strangulation, where blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off. This is an emergency.
Q3: How is a hernia diagnosed?
Physicians generally diagnose hernias by physical exam. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan can be employed to rule out or evaluate complications.
Q4: Is hernia surgery safe?
Yes, hernia repair is routine and generally safe. Most individuals recover rapidly, particularly with minimally invasive methods.
Q5: How can I prevent a hernia?
Keep a healthy weight, avoid heavy lifting, consume high-fiber foods to hinder constipation, and quit smoking to decrease chronic coughing.
