Hernias usually occur when an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue. It appears when there is a hole or weakness in the muscular wall of the abdomen. The function of this muscular wall is to keep the organs in the abdominal region in the correct place. If the organs or tissues are pushed outwards to form a bulge, then a hernia is formed. Hernias are commonly found in the abdomen, upper thigh, or groin region.
Hernia treatment is required to avoid any potentially dangerous complications.
What are the Common Hernia Symptoms that you should be aware of:
Hernia in the abdomen or groin can produce a noticeable lump or bulge that can be pushed back in or disappears when lying down. Laughing, crying, coughing, straining during bowel movement, or any physical activity might make the lump reappear after it gets pushed in.
The other symptoms of hernia include:
- Dull aching sensation in the region of the hernia
- Pain while lifting things
- Increased pain at the bulging site
- Increase in the bulge size with time
- Bulging or swelling in the scrotum or groin
- A sense of feeling full
- Bowel obstruction signs
In cases of hiatal hernia, there are no bulges outside the body, and the symptoms can include indigestion, heartburn, difficulty swallowing,acid refluxand chest pain.
What are the Causes of Hernia?
The Causes of Hernia Include:
- Poor nutritional habits
- Smoking
- Extreme physical; exertion
- Persistent cough
- Enlarged prostate
- Issues in urinating
- Cystic fibrosis
- Muscular weakness
- Pregnancy
Hernia Treatment Options
Hernias cannot be treated medically., Surgery is usually the ideal option for Hernia Treatment.
The Types of Hernia Surgeries that can be performed:
1. Open Surgery
In open surgery, a cut is made into the body where the hernia is located. The protruding tissue is set back in place, and the weakened muscle wall is stitched together. At times a type of mesh is implanted in the area to provide extra support.
2. Laparoscopic Surgery
In laparoscopic surgery, few tiny small incisions are made for fixing the hernia, and it does not require opening up the operated area. In laparoscopic surgery, small incisions are created, leaving very minor scars. There are also fewer chances of pain post-surgery, along with a faster recovery timeline.
Tips To Prevent Hernia
Muscle weakness causing hernia cannot be prevented, but the amount of strain put on one’s body can be reduced. It helps avoid hernia or even keeps the existing hernia from worsening.
Tips that can help prevent hernia are as follows:
- Avoid lifting weights that are too heavy
- Avoid excessive straining during bowel movements or urination
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Avoid smoking
- See a doctor immediately when you are sick. That will help avoid the development of persistent cough
- Lifting objects together using your knees and not your back
There are many benefits of getting a hernia surgery than leaving it untreated and increasing complication risks. Treatment is also consistently more effective when performed earlier. If you feel you are suffering from any of the mentioned symptoms of a hernia, contact us at the Laparoscopic & bariatric surgery center immediately! Dr Aparna Govil Bhaskar is the leading Hernia Surgeon in Mumbai who will guide you toward the best hernia treatment!
