A hernia develops when part of an internal organ or body part protrudes through an opening into another area where it ordinarily should not be located.
Different types of hernias
The most common is known as an inguinal hernia. It gets its name from the affected inguinal canal area, a natural passageway through the abdominal wall in the groin. Someone has an inguinal hernia when a portion of the intestine or fat pushes through a weakness in this area. It often causes a bulge under the skin, near the groin.
Inguinal hernias account for about 75-percent of all hernias and are five times more common in men than women.
Other hernias can occur in the upper thigh just under the groin, in the area between the naval and breastbone or under the naval. Some people develop hernias in places where they previously had surgery.
A hiatal hernia involves the stomach rather than the intestine. A portion of the stomach slips upward and passes into the chest. This is often associated with acid reflux.
How hernias develop and how to recognize one
Obesity, poor nutrition, smoking and infections after surgery can heighten a person’s risk, but virtually anyone can develop a hernia.
“Any activity that increases the pressure within the abdomen can cause a hernia,” said Dr. Timothy Pitchford, general surgeon with Marshfield Clinic Health System. “This can include heavy lifting, persistent coughing, diarrhea, or constipation.”
Most people notice a lump when they have a hernia. It may or may not be tender. They can also experience pain at the site or the surrounding area.
Other symptoms include pain while lifting, an increase in the bulge over time, an aching sensation, or a sense of feeling full.
Hiatal hernias do not have a noticeable lump, but patients will notice symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, difficulty swallowing or chest pain.
Your provider can often diagnose a hernia with just a physical examination, though he or she may use a CT scan or ultrasound.
Hernia surgery usually needed to heal
If you think you have a hernia, talk to your provider as soon as possible to discuss treatment.
“Surgical repair is generally recommended,” said Dr. Pitchford. “Other than newborns with an umbilical hernia, hernias will not go away without surgery. Furthermore, pain and discomfort often increases over time without treatment.”
Surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis. This means patients are expected to go home the same day as their surgery.
“Most hernias are repaired through a laparoscopic approach,” said Dr. Pitchford. “Small incisions are made to go in and fix the affected area with robotic assistance or the aid of a camera.”
Following surgery, patients will be put on a lifting restriction for four-to-six weeks. Walking is allowed, as long it doesn’t cause pain.
Learn more about hernias and when you should see a doctor from Dr. Gavin Ambrosi, general surgeon, in this video:
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