A hernia occurs when part of an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This often creates a visible bulge or swelling, which might grow larger when you cough, strain, or stand up.
Hernias can occur in different parts of the body, but they’re most common in the abdomen and groin.
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Types of Hernias
1. Inguinal Hernia
This is the most common type and occurs when a part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through the groin area. It’s more common in men.
2. Umbilical Hernia
This type happens near the belly button (umbilicus) and is common in newborns, pregnant women, or people who are overweight.
3. Hiatal Hernia
In this case, part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm (a muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen). It can cause acid reflux or heartburn.
4. Incisional Hernia
This occurs at the site of a previous surgery, where the tissue hasn’t healed properly.
5. Femoral Hernia
This happens in the upper thigh near the groin. It’s more common in women and can be dangerous if untreated.
6. Epigastric Hernia
This occurs in the upper abdomen, between the belly button and chest.
What Causes a Hernia?
- Lifting heavy objects without proper technique
- Persistent coughing or sneezing
- Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements
- Obesity or being overweight
- Pregnancy, which increases pressure in the abdomen
- Previous surgical wounds or injuries
What Are the Symptoms of a Hernia?
- A bulge or swelling in the affected area
- Pain or discomfort, especially when bending, coughing, or lifting
- A burning or aching sensation at the site of the bulge
- Nausea or vomiting (in severe cases, when the hernia becomes trapped or strangulated)
- Heartburn or difficulty swallowing (for hiatal hernias)
Why Should Hernias Be Treated?
Hernias don’t go away on their own. In fact, they often get bigger over time and can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Obstruction: When a part of the intestine gets stuck in the hernia, causing blockage.
- Strangulation: When the blood supply to the trapped organ is cut off, leading to tissue damage. This is a medical emergency.
How Are Hernias Diagnosed?
Doctors can usually diagnose a hernia with a physical exam. They may ask you to stand, strain, or cough to see the bulge more clearly. Additional tests like an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used for a detailed evaluation.
Types of Hernias
- Open Hernia Surgery (Traditional Surgery) – The surgeon makes an incision near the hernia site to repair the defect with stitches, mesh, or both
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally invasive) – This involves smaller incisions and the use of a camera to guide the repair
Post-Surgery & recovery
- Post-Surgery Care: Rest for a few days and follow your doctor’s instructions on caring for the incision site to prevent infection.
- Open Surgery: Recovery after open surgery usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is quicker, usually taking 1 to 2 weeks.
Why Choose LifePlus Hospital for Hernia Care?
At LifePlus Hospital, we provide comprehensive care for hernia patients, including:
- Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging technologies.
- Expert surgeons skilled in both open and laparoscopic hernia repairs.
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
- Post-surgery care and guidance for a smooth recovery.
Our compassionate team is here to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and supported every step of the way.
