May 27, 2019
Hernia is a condition whereon a tissue or part of an organ obtrudes out through a tear or weak muscle. It is a common problem in many adults around and after 50 years of age but can also occur in younger people. It is sometimes harmless and pain-free but in many cases can lead to grave discomfort and pain, calling for hernia surgery. Usually, hernias are simple to diagnose by feeling and looking at the bulge. Continuing on the subject, in this blog post, we provide an overview of all you need to know about the disorder. Read on.
Types of Hernia
A Hernia is characterized by many types depending on where it occurs on the body.
- Most of the hernias, about 75 percent, are inguinal and in the groin or lower abdominal region.
- Hiatal hernia is caused by the upper part of the stomach pushing out of the abdomen and into the chest cavity.
- Umbilical hernia arises in the belly button region.
- Incisional hernia is caused by scars by past abdominal surgery.
Causes of Hernia
We use our muscles for the simplest of things from breathing to blinking. While these small activities do not lead to a hernia, heavy lifting of items certainly does. While there is no obvious reason for Hernia to occur other than in the case of incisional hernia, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of Hernia.
Hernias can be either congenital or acquired in nature.
- A congenital hernia is a birth defect that causes the abdominal wall to not be fully sealed during development. While it does not necessarily show up immediately at birth, a congenital hernia might show up during heavy activities and rough play time.
- Acquired hernias are the ones caused by wear and tear due to previous surgeries, scars or heavy lifting. Other reasons for acquired hernias can include – stress, constipation, and obesity.
- Family history is a good way to predict if hernias will occur in future generations as research shows parental genes as a probable cause for a hernia in their offsprings.
- Chronic cough due to smoking or other reasons can lead to damage in the abdominal wall and eventually, hernias.
- Pregnancy can also cause hernias although the chances are low.
Treatment Options for Hernia
Getting a treatment done for hernia is crucial as it might lead to complications if left untreated. There are two types of treatments for hernia and both require surgery.
Open Surgery
A surgery where a large incision is made to push back the components in the body where they belong and the weakened tissue is reinforced in place. This type of surgery is risky as it comes with greater chances of infection and takes longer to heal
Laparoscopic Surgery
This is the safer and less messy alternative to open surgery. In Laparoscopic surgery, the incisions made are quite small and require very less time for recovery and do minimal scarring.
How to Minimize the Risk of Hernia?
A few tips can be followed to reduce the risk of Hernia in you and your loved ones:
- Avoid lifting heavy weights. However, if you do lift them, lift with your legs and not with your back.
- Smoking aggravates the problem and risk of Hernias.
- Change diet if necessary to improve bowel movement.
- Maintain a fit body and healthy weight.
Wrap Up
If you have reasons to believe that you or someone you know needs hernia surgery, speak with the experts at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. Our team has extensive experience in performing minimally invasive hernia repair surgery and have successfully managed all types of hernias. Book an appointment online or simply call 469-620-0222.