What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when there is a tear or weakness in the abdominal wall muscles and an organ (most often the intestines) or body fat may push out of its normal place in the abdomen. Most hernias occur within the abdominal cavity, between the chest and the hips.
What are the most common types of hernias that you treat? Who is most at risk?
Inguinal and femoral (groin) hernias: Due to weakened muscles that may have been present since birth, or are associated with aging and repeated strains on the abdominal and groin areas. Such strain may come from physical exertion, obesity, pregnancy, frequent coughing or straining on the toilet due to constipation.
Umbilical hernias: adults may get an umbilical hernia by straining the abdominal area, being overweight, having a long-lasting heavy cough, or after giving birth. Fatty tissue or part of the intestine pushes through the abdomen near the belly button.
Did You Know?
An estimated 5 million Americans have hernias and only 700,000 have them surgically repaired each year.
- 75–80% of hernias are inguinal or femoral;
- 2% are incisional or ventral; and
- 3%–10% are umbilical.
Epigastric hernia: Fatty tissue protrudes through the abdominal area between the navel and lower part of the breastbone.
Incisional hernia: Tissue protrudes through the site of an abdominal scar from a remote abdominal or pelvic operation.
What signs or symptoms should you watch out for?
- A hernia can produce a noticeable lump or bulge that can be pushed back in, or that can disappear when lying down.
- Increased pain at the site of the bulge
- Pain while lifting
- A dull aching sensation
- Change in bowel habits
Can a hernia be watched, or is surgery always going to be needed—and if yes, what are the options?
Hernias typically do not resolve on their own. Though hernias are often painless, they should never be ignored. Your doctor will recommend the best therapy to address your hernia, and may refer you to see a surgeon. If the surgeon thinks it is necessary to repair your hernia, then the surgeon will tailor the best method of repair that meets your needs.
One of two types of hernia surgery can be performed, depending on each patient’s case:
- Open surgery, in which a cut is made into the body at the location of the hernia. Sometimes a type of mesh is implanted in the area to provide extra support.
- Laparoscopic surgery involves the same type of repairs. However, instead of a single larger cut, tiny incisions are made to allow for the insertion of surgical tools to complete the procedure.
- Each type of surgery has its advantages and disadvantages. The best approach will be decided by the patient’s surgeon.
Will the hernia come back?
Hernias may recur regardless of the repair technique; sometimes this can be due to inherent tissue weakness or protracted healing. Diabetes, smoking and obesity are also major risk factors for hernia recurrence.
How can a hernia be prevented?
- Maintain ideal body weight by eating a healthy diet and exercising.
- Avoid constipation: eat enough fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Avoid lifting anything that is beyond your ability.
- Don’t smoke: it can lead to tissue weakening and coughing that triggers a hernia.
How can a hernia recurrence after surgery be prevented?
- Rest for an adequate period of time after surgery, as directed by the surgeon.
- Maintain a high-fiber diet and use stool softeners as needed to prevent hard stool.
- Avoid lifting anything that is beyond your ability until the recommended recovery and physical therapy programs have been completed.
- Don’t smoke: it can lead to tissue weakening and coughing that triggers a hernia recurrence.