Hernia Myth or Fact

Hernia is a treatable surgical ailment which is very common. It is more common in men than women and is found in people of all age groups. It is the abnormal exit of tissue or an organ such as the bowel, through the wall of the cavity in which it normally resides. This is one disease where the quality of life of the patient is affected.

A hernia occurs when there is a weakness or hole in the peritoneum, the muscular wall that usually keeps abdominal organs in place. Though it is treatable, it cannot be treated by medical management. The definitive treatment for hernia is only by surgery. So, if you find any of the symptoms of hernia, please contact your doctor immediately says Dr. Jayasimha Reddy, Consultant Surgical Gastro Enterologist, Star Hospitals

Common forms of hernia are  
Inguinal 
Femoral 
Umbilical
Incisional 
Epigastric 
Spigelian 
 
75-80% are Inguinal and Femoral, 2-5% are Incisional [Ventral], 3-10% Umbilical and 2-5% are other types.  

Causes of Hernia: 

Weakening of Muscles and Increased Intra-Abdominal Pressure due to Physical Exertion, Obesity, Pregnancy, Chronic Cough and Constipation.

 
Previous Surgeries. 
 
This defect in the peritoneum allows organs and tissues to push through, or herniate, producing a bulge.

Symptoms of Hernia: 

Swelling or Bulge in the Affected Area 
Increased Pain at the Site of the Bulge 
Dull Aching Sensation 
Increase in the Bulge Size over-time

Diagnosis is made by Physical Examination and the Exact Size of the Hernia can be diagnosed with Ultra Sonography. 

Complications of Hernia: 

Obstruction: Part of the Intestine gets stuck in the Area causing Nausea, Vomiting and Acute Pain. 
Gangrene: Part of the Intestine gets trapped and it’s Blood Supply is cut off. In these cases, emergency surgery is required. 

The lump may disappear when the person lies down, and sometimes it can be pushed back into. Coughing may make it reappear.
 
Prevention of Hernia: 

Consume Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise to prevent Obesity. 
Avoid Constipation by consuming Fibre-Rich Food, Plenty of Water and Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. 
Avoid Lifting Weights or Heavy Objects. 
Get treated for Chronic Cough. 

The surgical management of hernia includes both Conventional and Minimal Invasive Methods. Minimal Invasive Surgical Procedures [Laparoscopic and Robotic] have matured to provide excellent outcomes with benefit of early recovery and lower rates of pain and recurrence. However, there is no one-size-fits in hernia management as some people may require open technique.

Book Appointment: Dr. Jayasimha Reddy, Consultant Surgical Gastro Enterologist, Star Hospitals