HERNIA: Definition, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Definition:

A Hernia occurs when there is a weakness or hole in the muscular wall that usually keeps abdominal organs in place. A hernia can be found in different areas like:

• Inguinal Hernia – A bulge in the groin (more common in men)

• Femoral Hernia – A bulge just below groin (more common in women)

• Umbilical Hernia – A bulge around the belly button

• Incision Hernia – A bulge through previous surgical scar

• Congenital Hernia – A bulge in the groin by birth

Causes:

Hernias are the outcome of muscle weakness coupled with strain. Some causes may include:

• Long-term constipation • Long-term cough

• Enlarged prostate • Straining to urinate

• Being overweight or obese • Lifting heavy items

• Poor nutrition • Physical exertion • Previous surgery

Signs & Symptoms:

A hernia may bring discomfort, painless/sometimes painful bulge/swelling which becomes prominent in standing position & disappear in lying down position. A hernia can become an emergency situation when part of the gut becomes obstructed or strangulated in the sac because of its narrow neck. Immediate medical attention should be sought for a hernia which produces acute abdominal complaints such as pain, nausea or vomiting. The swelling in these cases is typically firm & tender and cannot be reduced back into the abdomen.

Test & Diagnosis:

Diagnosis is usually clinical. A doctor will often be able to see it & palpate it.

Treatment:

There are broadly two types of surgical interventions:

• Laparoscopic Surgery - Surgery is done through smaller incisions ensures a faster recovery with less pain and minimal blood loss & less likely to cause complications

• Open Surgery - Open surgical repair closes a hernia using sutures, mesh or both