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Hernia: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Cost

Last Updated: Jun 14, 2023

What is Hernia?

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When an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue, it is known as a Hernia. It may cause discomfort or pain, as well as a noticeable lump or bulge under the skin.

Hernias can appear anywhere on the body, including the diaphragm, groyne, upper thigh, and abdomen. While some hernias may not result in any noticeable symptoms, others may create serious issues and necessitate surgical repair.

Types of Hernia

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Basically, there are many types of hernias, each a little different from the other. Below, we will be discussing in detail about some of them. Have a look:

There are several types of hernias, which occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. Some common types of hernias include:

  1. Inguinal hernia: This type of hernia occurs in the groin area and is the most common type of hernia. It occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
  2. Umbilical hernia: This type of hernia occurs around the belly button and is more common in babies and young children. It occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal wall near the belly button.
  3. Hiatal hernia: This type of hernia occurs in the upper part of the stomach, where it protrudes through an opening in the diaphragm (the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen).
  4. Incisional hernia: This type of hernia occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision. It occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through the scar tissue at the site of the incision.
  5. Femoral hernia: This type of hernia occurs in the groin area and is more common in women. It occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal wall near the femoral artery.
  6. Ventral hernia: This type of hernia occurs anywhere along the midline of the abdominal wall. It occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
  7. Epigastric hernia: This type of hernia occurs in the upper part of the abdomen, between the rib cage and the belly button. It occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
  8. Spigelian hernia: This type of hernia occurs along the border of the rectus abdominis muscle, which runs down the middle of the abdomen. It occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall.

Inguinal Hernia or Groin Hernia

An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as a section of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles (lower belly) and affects the inguinal canal in your groin. The resulting bulge can be painful, particularly when coughing, bending over, or lifting a heavy object.

Many hernias, however, are painless. An inguinal hernia is not always dangerous. Inguinal hernias are the most common type of groin hernia.

There are two kinds of Inguinal Hernia

  • Indirect Inguinal Hernia: The more common type; enters the inguinal canal
  • Direct Inguinal Hernia: It does not enter the inguinal canal.

This type of hernia is more common among men because right after birth, testicles drop through the inguinal canal. Subsequently, the canal almost shuts down fully behind them. When the canal does not close as it is supposed to, it leaves a weak area.

These hernias are generally not dangerous. However, if they are not treated, they can lead to more serious issues so if you suffer from this you can go for a hernia operation.

Hiatal hernia

Hiatal hernia occurs when some upper part of our stomach pokes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It can occur in children because of a congenital birth irregularity. People above the age of 50 years are more prone to suffering from hiatal hernia.

An increase in abdominal pressure is the most common cause of a hiatal hernia. In almost every case of hiatal hernia the patient suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In this condition, the stomach contents flow back towards the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Umbilical hernia

An umbilical hernia occurs when a section of your intestine pokes through a hole or opening in your abdominal muscles near your belly button (navel). Umbilical hernias are relatively common and usually harmless. Although umbilical hernias are most common in infants, they can also affect adults.

Children and babies are more prone to suffering from umbilical hernias. This type of hernia is noticeable around a child's belly button, particularly when they cry.

This type of hernia often disappears on its own as the abdominal walls get stronger. This generally occurs when the child is about 1 to 2 years old. It disappears on its own by the time a child turns 5. If it does not go away by then, the doctors recommend going for a hernia operation to fix it.

Umbilical hernia can occur in adults too. It happens because of continuous strain on the abdominal area because of other health conditions like obesity, ascites (fluid in the abdomen), or pregnancy.

Incisional hernia or Ventral hernia

After having stomach surgery, a person may develop an incisional hernia. It typically involves making an incision down the center of the stomach. If the surgical wound does not heal completely, the patient is more likely to develop a hernia.

Incisional hernias or Ventral hernias occur when tissue pokes through a fragile spot in the muscles of the abdominal region. The size of the ventral hernia decreases noticeably when the patient lies down.

Ventral hernias can exist in the human body since birth, but most patients develop it at some point during their lifetime. Obesity, pregnancy, and strenuous activities are the main causes of ventral hernia.

What are the Symptoms of Hernia?

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The symptoms of a hernia may vary depending on the type and location of the hernia. Some common symptoms of a hernia include:

  1. A bulge or protrusion in the affected area: This is often the most noticeable symptom of a hernia. The bulge may be more noticeable when standing or coughing and may disappear when lying down.
  2. Pain or discomfort: A hernia may cause pain or discomfort in the affected area, especially when standing or coughing.
  3. A heavy or dragging sensation: Some people with a hernia may feel a heavy or dragging sensation in the affected area.
  4. A feeling of weakness or fatigue: A hernia may cause a feeling of weakness or fatigue, especially if it is large or if the intestine is stuck in the hernia.
  5. Difficulty swallowing: A hiatal hernia may cause difficulty swallowing, as the protrusion of the stomach into the chest may interfere with the movement of food through the esophagus.
  6. Heartburn or acid reflux: A hiatal hernia may cause heartburn or acid reflux, as the protrusion of the stomach into the chest may allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

Causes of Hernia

There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing a hernia, including:

  1. Age: As we age, our muscles and tissues naturally weaken and become more prone to hernias.
  2. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen, increasing the risk of developing a hernia.
  3. Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause the muscles and tissues of the abdomen to stretch and weaken, increasing the risk of developing a hernia.
  4. Heavy lifting: Repeatedly lifting heavy objects can put a strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen, increasing the risk of developing a hernia.
  5. Chronic cough or constipation: Chronic coughing or constipation can put a strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen, increasing the risk of developing a hernia.
  6. Previous surgery: Having surgery in the abdomen can weaken the muscles and tissues, increasing the risk of developing a hernia at the site of the incision.
  7. Genetic factors: Some people may be born with weakened muscles or tissues in the abdomen, increasing their risk of developing a hernia.

It's important to note that not all hernias are preventable. However, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and managing chronic conditions such as constipation or a chronic cough may help reduce the risk of developing a hernia.

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How serious is a hernia?

Asymptomatic hernia is not a dangerous condition, but a symptomatic hernia can cause life-threatening conditions. Such issues include necrotizing enterocolitis (severe inflammation of intestines) and sepsis.

How does a hernia patient feel?

Generally, hernia patients have a bulge under the skin of the abdomen or the groin, which may be tender and disappear when they lay down.

Hernia patients always feel full in the abdomen and often suffer from constipation or experience blood in the stool. Here are some other things that hernia patients feel:

  • Discomfort in the abdominal area or groin while lifting weight or bending over
  • Burning or itching at or around the bulge
  • Sense of weakness or pressure in the groin region
  • Heartburn
  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Intense pain
  • Vomiting
  • Regular constipation
  • Constant pain and swelling around the testicals
  • Upper abdominal pain

Risk factors for hernia

Different hernia types pose different risk factors for the patients. Have a look:

  • Inguinal hernia: Risk factors for inguinal hernias include age, obesity, heavy lifting, and previous abdominal surgery. Men are more likely to develop this type of hernia.
  • Umbilical hernia: Risk factors for umbilical hernias include premature birth, obesity, and multiple pregnancies.
  • Hiatal hernia: Risk factors for hiatal hernias include obesity, smoking, heavy lifting, and repeated episodes of vomiting.
  • Incisional hernia: Risk factors for incisional hernias include obesity, previous abdominal surgery, and infection at the site of the surgical incision.
  • Femoral hernia: Risk factors for femoral hernias include obesity, previous abdominal surgery, and pregnancy. Women are more likely to develop this type of hernia.
  • Ventral hernia: Risk factors for ventral hernias include obesity, previous abdominal surgery, and infection at the site of the surgical incision.
  • Epigastric hernia: Risk factors for epigastric hernias include obesity, heavy lifting, and previous abdominal surgery.
  • Spigelian hernia: Risk factors for spigelian hernias include obesity, heavy lifting, and previous abdominal surgery.

It's important to note that these are just some of the risk factors for each type of hernia, and not all people with these risk factors will necessarily develop a hernia.

How can you prevent Hernia?

Here are some ways you can help prevent a hernia:

  • Smokers should Quit smoking immediately: Smoking can increase the risk of developing a hiatal hernia. Quitting smoking can help reduce this risk. They can also consult their doctor to prepare a smokers cessation plan for themselves.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese puts extra strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen, increasing the risk of developing a hernia. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce this risk.
  • Avoid heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects can put strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen, increasing the risk of developing a hernia. When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques, such as bending your knees and keeping the object close to your body.
  • Manage chronic conditions: Chronic conditions such as constipation and a chronic cough can put strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen, increasing the risk of developing a hernia. Managing these conditions through lifestyle changes and medical treatment can help reduce the risk of developing a hernia.
  • Avoid straining during bowel movements: Straining during bowel movements can put extra pressure on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen, increasing the risk of developing a hernia. To avoid straining, make sure you are getting enough fiber in your diet and drink plenty of fluids.
  • Take care of your incision after surgery: If you have had surgery in the abdomen, make sure you follow your doctor's instructions for caring for the incision. This can help prevent the development of an incisional hernia.

Do’s for Hernia patients

  • Increase quantity of fruits and vegetables in your diet
  • Drink at least 2 litres of water everyday
  • Have plenty of fluids to prevent constipation
  • Try to sweat as much as possible without straining to lose excess toxins

Don’ts for Hernia Patients

  • Eat less food
  • Putting extra strain during bowel movements
  • Smoke
  • Drink alcohol
  • Lie down right after having food

Hernia - Diagnosis and Tests

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose a hernia:

  • Physical examination: A physical examination is often the first step in diagnosing a hernia. During the examination, the doctor will look for signs of a hernia, such as a bulge or protrusion in the affected area. The doctor may also ask the patient to perform certain movements, such as coughing or standing, to see if the hernia becomes more noticeable.
  • Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI can be used to get a clearer picture of the hernia and help confirm the diagnosis.
  • Ultrasound: An ultrasound can be used to visualize the hernia and assess its size and location. This method uses high-frequency sound waves to prepare an image of the organs and their positioning inside the body.
  • Herniography: This test involves injecting a contrast dye into the area around the hernia and then taking X-rays to visualize the hernia and assess its size and location.
  • Endoscopy: This test involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end through the mouth and into the stomach. This can be used to visualize a hiatal hernia and assess its size and location.

Questions that your doctor may ask you during Hernia examination

Here are a few questions that your doctor may ask you:

  • When did the bulge first appear on your body?
  • What other symptoms are you experiencing?
  • What could be the cause of it?
  • A few lifestyle-related questions, like -
    • Does your profession require heavy weight lifting?
    • Do you do strenuous exercises in the gym or at home?
    • Do you smoke?
    • Do you occasionally lift weights?
  • Did you or any of your close family members have a history of hernia?
  • Did you have any surgeries in your abdomen or groin area?

What are possible complications of Hernia?

There are several possible complications of a hernia, including:

  • Strangulation: This occurs when the hernia becomes trapped and the blood supply to the protruding tissue is cut off. This can be a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
  • Obstruction: This occurs when the hernia blocks the intestine, causing difficulty passing stool or gas. This can lead to abdominal pain and bloating.
  • Incarceration: This occurs when the hernia becomes trapped and cannot be pushed back into place. This can cause pain and may require surgery to correct.
  • Chronic pain: Some people with a hernia may experience chronic pain in the affected area, even after the hernia has been repaired.
  • Recurrence: A hernia that has been repaired may come back (recur) at a later time.

Home Remedies for Hernia

It's important to note that home remedies are not a substitute for medical treatment for a hernia. That being said, here are some home remedies that may help alleviate some of the symptoms of a hernia:

  • Apply a cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected area may help reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Take over-the-counter pain medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen may help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Eat a high-fiber diet: A high-fiber diet may help reduce constipation, which can put strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen and exacerbate hernia symptoms.
  • Avoid Spicy Foods: Doctors suggest avoiding spicy food and tomato-based foods to prevent acid reflux. Health professionals also suggest giving up cigarettes.
  • Avoid heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects can put strain on the muscles and tissues of the abdomen and may exacerbate hernia symptoms.
  • Wear a truss: A truss is a special device that can be worn to support the hernia and help prevent it from becoming trapped or strangulated.

It's important to note that these home remedies may not cure a hernia and should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have a hernia, it's important to follow your doctor's treatment plan and seek medical attention if you experience worsening symptoms or complications.

What to Eat in Hernia?

If you have a hernia, it's important to follow a healthy and balanced diet to help manage your symptoms and prevent complications. Here are some general recommendations for what to eat if you have a hernia:

  • Fruits and vegetables: Aim to include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can help support overall health and prevent constipation.
  • Lean proteins: Choose lean sources of protein such as chicken, turkey, fish, and plant-based proteins like beans and tofu. These foods can help support muscle health and repair.
  • Whole grains: Choose whole grains such as whole wheat, quinoa, oats, and brown rice instead of refined grains. These foods are rich in fiber and nutrients, which can help support overall health and prevent constipation.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids to help prevent constipation and maintain good bowel function.
  • Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods: These types of foods can be difficult to digest and may exacerbate hernia symptoms.

What not to Eat in Hernia?

If you have a hernia, it's important to follow a healthy and balanced diet to help manage your symptoms and prevent complications. Here are some general recommendations for what to avoid if you have a hernia:

  • High-fat foods: Foods that are high in fat can be difficult to digest and may exacerbate hernia symptoms.
  • Citrus foods: including oranges, grapes and lemons should also be avoided.
  • Spicy foods: Spicy foods may irritate the digestive system and worsen hernia symptoms.
  • Caffeine: Caffeine can stimulate the digestive system and may exacerbate hernia symptoms.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol can irritate the digestive system and may worsen hernia symptoms.
  • Carbonated beverages: Carbonated beverages can cause bloating and may exacerbate hernia symptoms.

Hernia Treatment

In some cases, doctors recommend watchful waiting if the hernia is not causing any pain or discomfort to the patient. You can also wear a truss to relieve your symptoms, but it is highly recommended to check with your doctor first as it is critical that the truss fits the patient properly.

In children, the doctors try to reduce the size of the bulge by applying manual pressure to avoid a hernia operation.

Hernias that cause pain and discomfort, or are big in size require surgery to avoid serious complications. Mainly, there are three types of hernia surgeries - Open Hernia Repair, Minimally Invasive Hernia Repair and Laser Hernia Repair.

Open Hernia Repair

Under this procedure, the doctor generally uses local anaesthesia and sedation. Sometimes, general anesthesia is also used for the surgery.

Doctor makes an incision in the groin region and pushes back the protruding tissue in its place. Then the weakened area is sewed, reinforcing it with synthetic mesh, also known as hernioplasty. Subsequently, the incision is tied up with surgical glue, stitches or staples.

After the hernia operation, the doctors recommend you to start moving quickly after the surgery, but it will take several weeks for the patient to start doing the normal activities.

Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery

Doctors use general anesthesia in this procedure. He/she will make several small incisions in the abdominal region of the patient, and use laparoscopic and robotic tools to fix the hernia. The doctor also uses gas to inflate the patient's abdomen to see the organs properly.

Using one of the incisions, the doctor inserts a small camera (laparoscope) inside the abdomen. Subsequently, the surgeon will insert other tiny instruments inside the abdomen through other incisions while watching everything using the camera. Once this is done, they repair the hernia through synthetic mesh.

People who undergo Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery might feel less post-surgery pain, discomfort and scarring. They can return to normal life quickly. The long-term results of open hernia surgery and laparoscopic surgery are very similar.

Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery is a better option for patients whose hernia has recurred after an open surgery as it allows the surgeon to avoid the scar tissue from the earlier hernia repair. It is also a better option for people suffering from hernias on each side of the body.

Pristyn Care has a very highly experienced (more than 15 years) and skilled team for Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery. They use a USFDA approved procedure that only takes up to 45 minutes in completion. Moreover, they also use a very high quality mesh in the procedure to prevent the chances of recurrence of the condition.

Which doctor to consult for Hernia?

If you think you may have a hernia, it's a good idea to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The type of doctor you should see for a hernia depends on the location and severity of the hernia. Here are some options:

  • General surgeon: A general surgeon is a doctor who specialized in surgery of the abdomen and other organs. They are often the first point of contact for people with a hernia and can diagnose and treat a hernia through surgery.
  • Gastroenterologist: A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specialized in the digestive system and its disorders. They may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of hiatal hernias.
  • Urologist: A urologist is a doctor who specialized in the urinary system and the male reproductive system. They may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of inguinal hernias.
  • Obstetrician/gynecologist: An obstetrician/gynecologist is a doctor who specialized in the female reproductive system and pregnancy. They may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of femoral hernias.

It's important to see a doctor if you think you may have a hernia, as untreated hernias can lead to more serious complications. A doctor will be able to diagnose a hernia and recommend treatment options.

How to select the best doctor for Hernia?

Finding the right doctor to fix hernia is very critical as if the condition was not treated with care, it may reappear in no time. As surgery is the only option to treat this condition, there are a few things you must consider before choosing your surgeon. Have a look:

  • Doctor's Certification: You must check for doctor’s certification before going through with the surgery. The surgeon must have a certification from a recognised medical institution and a license to practice from the Medical Licensing Board. A General Surgeon must carry a degree of Masters in Surgery to carry out a hernia operation.
  • Skills and Experience: You should also ensure that the doctor you are choosing has ample experience in treating people with hernia.
  • Reviews: You must check for reviews from the doctor's previous patients. This not only gives you an idea about his skills but also about the way he behaves with the patients and their attendants.
  • Hospital and Clinic Information: Doctors work at a clinic, hospital or both. Hence, you should try to find out about the reputation of the hospital or clinic where the doctor practices as it will give you an idea about his/her prowess in their craft.
  • Clear Your Doubts: You must be comfortable sharing your medical history with the doctor. Otherwise, it may cause complications during the surgery. Therefore, you are advised to clear all your queries with the surgeon before going for the surgery.

If you think that your surgeon fits in all the above-discussed criteria, you should go ahead with the surgery. If you do not know where you can find all this information about your doctor, you must visit Pristyn Care where you will get to know each and every detail about the doctor in one place.

Which are the best medicines for Hernia?

Over-the-counter medications

A lot of people try to alleviate the symptoms of hiatal hernia through over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Some medications help the patients in reducing the production of acid in the body. Excessive production of stomach acid can weaken the muscle tissue and stomach lining.

These OTC medications decrease the acid production giving time to the tissue to heal properly. Most common medications for this purpose are Maalox and Tums.

Histamine agonists are another type of medicine that are available over-the-counter and help in reducing acids. The most commonly used OTC h-2 blocker medicines are Zantac and Pepcid. Recently, the USFDA recalled Zantac from the market as it was increasing the risk of cancer.

Prescription drugs

Despite being an effective option, OTC medications are only a temporary solution that help the patient in alleviating the symptoms of hernia. Prescription medications are helpful for people who have suffered from hiatal hernia more than once.

Patients should see a doctor if they have a recurrent problem of hiatal hernia and get the medications as per their condition.

Despite being helpful in acid reflux, these medications will only fight the symptoms while the original problem will persist. Hence, it is better not to postpone the hernia operation and get a doctor's opinion on priority once the symptoms first appear.

How Long Does it Take to Recover from Hernia?

After open surgery, a patient may take up to four to six weeks to fully recover. Right after the surgery, the patient would only be able to perform necessary daily functions but would only be able to resume routine activities after six weeks.

On the other hand, Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery has significantly less downtime. The hospital stay is also very less and the surgery scars also heal in a very quick time.

What is the Cost of Hernia Surgery in India?

The average cost of a hernia surgery in India is about Rs 65,000. It, however, may change depending upon the city, type of hospital, age of the patient, fees of the surgeon, etc.

Are the Results of the Hernia Surgery Permanent?

There are two types of meshes used in the surgery. Non-absorbable mesh is supposed to stay in the body indefinitely, providing permanent reinforcement to the repaired hernia. On the other hand, absorbable mesh dissolves in the body over time, as it is not supposed to provide long-term reinforcement to the repair site. This type of mesh is used when the doctor believes that by the time it will dissolve, the new tissue growth would be able to provide strength to the repair.

What are the Hernia Post-Surgery Guidelines?

Swelling at surgical site, and genital areas, abdominal bloating, bruising and fluid accumulation in groin region are very normal occurrences after a hernia repair surgery. Patients are advised to rotate ice packs for 15 minutes every hour for the first three days to subside the swelling. Here are other guidelines for postoperative care:

  • Wound Care: You must ensure that the dressing on the surgery wounds remains dry for the first three days. After three days, you can take a shower but have to make sure that you do not keep the wet dressing on after the shower. You are also advised not to submerge your incision into a pool or lake.
  • Activity: You can climb stairs and go on walks if feeling okay. You, however, should not do any strenuous activity, including lifting weights, sexual intercourse or any other type of exercise until your post-op visit. Based upon your situation, your doctor may or may not enhance the duration of these restrictions. People with complex hernia are suggested to wear binder. You can travel in a car but should not drive until you are on medications. Also ensure to take breaks and stretch your legs on a long trip within a month of the surgery.
  • Pain and Discomfort: OTC medications are also recommended to manage the postoperative pain. The patient's doctor may also prescribe a strength pain medication.
  • Diet: The patient should take clear liquids for the first 24 hours. Subsequently, the patient can advance the diet while avoiding everything that may cause constipation.
  • Fighting Constipation: Stay on a full liquid diet for the first 24-36 hours. Speak with your doctor to prepare a medication-diet chart for your specific needs to avoid the chances of constipation.
  • Consult Your Doctor: If fever is over 101 degree fahrenheit, skin is getting red, swelling is increasing, bleeding or drainage from incisions, and if you had to go to ER for a urinary catheter.

What are the Side-Effects of Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery

There are minimal to no side-effects of laparoscopic hernia surgery. Some of the rare side-effects of hernia mesh may include:

  • Adhesion
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Bowel perforation
  • Infection
  • Rejection
  • Migration
  • Recurrence
  • Chronic Pain

Hernia - Outlook/Prognosis

Conclusively, Hernia is only treatable with surgery and Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery is the best way to get rid of the problem without opening up your body too much. You can prevent this condition through some lifestyle and dietary changes. If your hernia is not causing any pain, doctors recommend you wait watchfully before going for surgery.

Medications are only a temporary solution that will only subside the symptoms for a time being. Hence, getting a doctor's opinion is highly recommended. In about 10 percent of adults, a hernia may recur requiring the patient to undergo another surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is inguinal hernia?

It is the most prevalent type of hernia, where intestines poke out through a weak spot in the lower abdomen. Usually, it happens in the inguinal canal, which is found in the groin area.

How to fix a hiatal hernia yourself?

The first step towards treating hiatal hernia at home is to control the gastric acid reflux. The other steps may include weight loss, reduced food portions, never lying down right after eating, avoiding fried, fatty, acidic and spicy foods, quitting smoking, coffee and chocolate, avoiding alcohol and carbonated drinks.

How to relieve hernia pain?

OTC pain medications are the fastest way to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by hernia. Apart from the pain medications, doctors also recommend taking OTC antacids to reduce acid secretion in the body to alleviate hernia symptoms.

What can be mistaken for a hernia?

Sometimes, hernias go misdiagnosed among women. Because of being small in size, hernias are misdiagnosed as fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or other abdominal issues.

What does a hernia look like?

Generally, hernia looks like a bulge in the abdominal or groin area. This bulge becomes more visible when bending, coughing, lifting heavy weights, laughing or straining.

Where is a hernia located?

A hernia can occur in several parts of the body but most commonly, it is found in the abdominal or groin region of the body.

Can hernia cause death?

An incarcerated hernia is capable of cutting off the blood flow to the intestine of the patient. This strangulation can kill the affected bowel tissue. A strangulated hernia is life-threatening, and hence, requires immediate medical intervention.

References

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Written ByDr. C.S. Ramachandran DNB (General Surgery),FICS,MBBS,MS - General Surgery,FCCP (USA)General Surgery
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