Your organs are ideally held in place by your muscles. Nonetheless, there are times when one of the organs protrudes through the wall of muscle. This is called a hernia. Hernias can develop anywhere in the body but usually happen within the abdominal cavity. It implies the area between the chest and the hips. Hernias can cause pain while lifting heavy objects or a dull aching sensation. You will need proper hernia treatment if they cause any pain or keep growing. Typically, this condition is diagnosed through a physical examination. A bulge is felt or seen in the region where the hernia has appeared. Soft-tissue imaging, like a CT scan, can also be done for an appropriate diagnosis.
Common Types of Hernia
● Inguinal hernia: An inguinal canal is a passage in men’s blood vessels and spermatic cords that lead to their testicles. The inguinal canal features the round ligament that provides support to the womb when it comes to women. In an inguinal hernia, a portion of the fatty tissue or intestine pushes into the groin at the top of the inner thigh. This is the most popular type of hernia and commonly affects more men than women.
● Femoral hernia: In this condition, a portion of the fatty tissue or intestine protrudes in the groin, right at the top of the inner thigh. A femoral hernia usually affects older women.
● Umbilical hernia: When fatty tissue or a part of the intestine pushes back through the abdomen near the belly button, the condition is called an umbilical hernia.
● Hiatal hernia: Diaphragm refers to the horizontal sheet of muscle meant to separate the abdomen from the chest. In this case, a part of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity from an opening in this diaphragm.
What may cause a hernia?
Hernias are a pretty common condition. Femoral and inguinal hernias are generally caused due to weakened muscles. These weak muscles may be present since birth or can be associated with ageing. Muscles can also become weak due to repeated strains on the groin and abdominal regions. Apart from physical exertion, frequent coughing, obesity, and pregnancy may also cause this strain.
Many adults get umbilical hernias due to heavy strain on their abdominal area or by being overweight. In many instances, women may suffer from this condition after giving birth.
When to go for Hernia surgery?
There are a few instances when the hernia is small and does not grow or cause any pain. In such a situation, immediate surgery might not be needed. However, it is vital to note that in most cases, hernias do get larger. Even if it is not causing any trouble at the current moment, without a proper hernia treatment, it can eventually lead to more severe complications.
Most doctors recommend a surgery when:
● Tissues like the intestine become trapped in the abdominal wall, causing incarceration. This can result in strangulation if left untreated. Strangulation refers to a condition when the blood supply to the tissue gets cut off.
● Hernia becomes strangulated, causing permanent damage. Such a condition requires immediate surgery. If the strangulated organs are not treated within time, it can cause severe harm to the well-being of the patients. If you find your hernia turning red, purple, or dark or feel sudden pain in the region that keeps getting worse, it is imperative to contact the doctor right away for hernia treatment.
● If the hernia keeps growing longer or causes discomfort and pain, it is best advised to visit the doctor’s chamber.
Types of hernia surgery
● Open surgery: A cut is made into the patient’s body, right at the location of the hernia. The surgeon sets the protruding tissue back in place and subsequently stitches back the weakened muscle wall. At times, a type of mesh is implanted to provide extra support to the region.
● Laparoscopic surgery: This surgery is similar to the one mentioned above. However, no cuts are made to the outside of the groin or abdomen in this procedure. Instead, tiny incisions are created for surgical tools that can be inserted to complete the surgery.
● Robotic hernia repair: A laparoscope is used in this procedure as well, along with tiny incisions. The surgeon handles the surgical instruments with the help of a distinctive console while being seated in the operating room. This procedure is usually undertaken for small hernias.
Based on the health of the patient, their preferences, and individual condition, the doctors would recommend which of the surgery to go for as a hernia treatment. You will also be given specific instructions to maintain your well-being after the surgery. It usually is recommended to avoid physical strain after the surgery. You must also care for the incision site properly, as per the advice of your doctor.
To lower the risk of getting a hernia, staying fit, active, and healthy is essential. Obesity can be a crucial factor in the development of a hernia. Using the correct form when lifting weights or heavy objects is also vital to steer clear of this condition.
Read Also: Loose Weight
