What Is a Hernia? Types, Causes, and Symptoms Explained

A hernia is very common among both men and women. It mainly occurs when an internal part of the body (an organ or fatty tissue) squeezes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue called the fascia.

While some hernias are congenital, i.e they are present as birth defects in the individuals, there are others which develop over time as a result of various risk factors.

A hernia causes a noticeable bulge in the affected area and leads to immense pain and discomfort, especially during physical activity. If left untreated, it even results in serious complications like strangulation of the tissue.

Warning Signs Indicating You Are Suffering From A Hernia

The symptoms of a hernia vary depending on its type and severity. Here are some of the common signs which most individuals experience.

• Swelling and bulging in the affected area, which becomes more prominent during standing, coughing or lifting.
• Severe pain and discomfort at the site of the bulge
• Increase in the size of the bulge over time
• A dull and aching sensation around the bulge
• Nausea and vomiting occur when the hernia is strangulated.
• A fullness or signs of bowel obstruction

These are some of the crucial yet subtle indicators of hernias which often go unnoticed. Hence, whenever you experience any one or a combination of these symptoms, get in touch with the best hernia surgeon, like Dr Purnendu Bhowmik, who is well-known for his accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Various Types of Hernia

The different types of hernia include the following:

Inguinal hernia: This is one of the common types of hernia, mostly affecting men. It occurs when a part of the intestine pushes through the inguinal canal, a passageway that runs down your inner thigh.

Femoral hernia: It is not that common and happens in women more than men. Here, the tissue protrudes through the femoral canal located in the upper thigh. It is quite dangerous due to its proximity to the blood vessels.

Hiatal hernia: This occurs when a part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It is quite a common condition as an individual ages. The diaphragm consists of a small opening called the hiatus, through which the esophagus (food pipe) passes. Hiatal hernia is a leading cause of GERD.

Umbilical hernia: An umbilical hernia occurs in the middle of the navel. Sometimes, the swelling is just above the belly button, and hence the bulging happens just above the umbilicus. In fact, an umbilical hernia can occur anywhere between the navel and the breastbone.

Incisional hernia: It usually develops through scar tissue or an incision from previous abdominal surgery. The risk even increases when there is increased pressure in the abdomen.

Perineal hernia: It is a type of pelvic floor hernia and occurs when the tissues or organs protrude through a weakness in the pelvic floor muscles into the abdominal cavity.

Causes and Risk Factors of Hernia

You are likely to get a hernia under the following conditions, as stated by the best hernia surgeon, Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik.

• Heavy lifting and hours of standing
• Conditions like chronic bronchitis or smoking that lead to persistent coughing.
• Chronic constipation during bowel movements that increase pressure in the abdominal cavity.
• Repeated pregnancies result in straining of the abdominal muscles.
• Previous history of abdominal or pelvic surgery
• Excessive weight which puts pressure on the abdominal walls
• A family history of hernias

If you fall under these categories and notice an unusual bulge in any part of your body, especially in the abdomen or scar tissue area, make sure to go for an urgent medical checkup with a hernia surgeon.

Potential Complications of An Untreated Hernia

Any type of hernia needs to be addressed immediately; otherwise, it can lead to serious health concerns.

Strangulation: It happens when the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off. Strangulation of a hernia is a life-threatening condition and results in the death of the tissue.

Incarceration: It happens when the contents of the hernia get trapped in the hernia sac and can’t be pushed back into the abdomen.

Other complications include the following:

• Chronic and severe pain
• The weakened tissues can get infected.
• An existing hernia can complicate other surgical interventions.
• Diagnosis of hernia
• Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik, the best hernia surgeon, uses the following procedure to diagnose a hernia.
• Physical examination to check for any bulge.
• Imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan and MRI to assess the size and location of the hernia.

Treatment of Hernia

Dr Purnendu Bhowmik, the best hernia surgeon, discusses the following effective treatment options for hernia.

Open surgery: Here, the surgeon makes a deep cut at the location of the hernia and pushes the protruding tissue back into its place. The weakened muscles are then stitched back together.

Laparoscopic surgery: The procedure of repair is the same. However, instead of a deep cut, tiny incisions are made to allow the insertion of a laparoscope (a thin tube that has a video camera attached) and other surgical instruments.

Robotic-assisted surgery: It is also a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to repair the hernia using a robotic-assisted laparoscope and other surgical instruments.

Is it Possible to Prevent a Hernia?

While it is true that not all hernias can be prevented, there are some lifestyle changes which you can incorporate to prevent their formation, says Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik, the best hernia surgeon.

• Maintain a healthy body weight to reduce straining of the abdominal muscles. To do so, stick to a healthy diet and regular exercise.
• Use proper technique and correct posture to lift heavy objects and weights.
• Quit smoking to reduce chronic smoking.
• Treat any underlying conditions that trigger respiratory infections.

Conclusion

Anyone can develop a hernia, but the condition needs expert care. Keep an eye on your hernia and look for any deteriorating symptoms. If so, consult and discuss your concerns with a hernia surgeon for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.