Hernias Explained: Causes, Surgical Solutions, And Recovery Tips

Hernia is a swelling or protrusion of abdominal contents such as intra abdominal fat or intestines through a weak area or defect in the abdominal wall. The commonest sites of hernia are groyne area/inguinal hernia, femoral hernia, umbilical hernia and incisional hernia.
Incisional hernia protrudes through the scar of previous surgery.

Causes Of Hernia

Anything which increases intra abdominal pressure causes the abdominal contents to bulge out through the weak parts or defects. So activities such as weight lifting, coughing, straining at micturition or defecation cause the hernia to develop.

Investigation To Know That You Have A Hernia

A hernia is typically diagnosed through clinical examination, where a bulge appears at the hernia site when intra-abdominal pressure increases. In some cases, an ultrasound may be used to support the diagnosis, and for complex incisional hernias, a CT scan may be necessary.

Why is surgery needed for a hernia? Are there no medications to treat it? What are the risks of not opting for surgery?

Hernia is a condition that can only be treated surgically—there are no medications that can cure a hernia. If left untreated, a hernia can lead to serious, life-threatening complications. In cases where the hernia becomes obstructed, the intestines or other contents can become trapped and lose blood supply, potentially causing the tissue to die (known as strangulation). This situation requires emergency surgery, often involving the removal of damaged intestinal sections. For this reason, it’s strongly recommended that once diagnosed with a hernia, you should opt for surgery as soon as possible to avoid these severe complications.

Treatment Of Hernia

Hernia treatment typically involves surgery, which addresses the hernia sac, repairs the defect, and reinforces it with a mesh. This surgery can be performed through conventional methods, laparoscopic techniques, or using robotic assistance. The complexity of the procedure and its outcomes depend on the severity of the hernia.

Aftercare For The Hernia Surgery

The recovery period after hernia surgery varies depending on the type of hernia and the surgical method used, but in all cases, it is crucial to avoid increasing intra-abdominal pressure for at least a year. This means refraining from activities like heavy lifting and straining, which are common causes of pressure buildup. Additionally, wearing specific supportive belts is recommended depending on the type of surgery. For instance, patients recovering from inguinal hernia surgery should wear a scrotal support for six weeks, while those recovering from umbilical or incisional hernia surgery should wear an abdominal belt for six months.

Can Hernia Recur?

Hernia recurrence is common, especially if post-surgery precautions are not followed. While recurrence is less frequent in inguinal hernias, it is more likely in incisional or ventral hernias. Though these general guidelines provide a foundation, your healthcare professional will offer personalised advice and guide you through the surgery and recovery process. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, addressing a hernia promptly is essential to avoid potential complications, such as obstruction or strangulation of the intestines, which can lead to more severe health risks. Hernias cannot be treated with medication, making surgery the only definitive solution. Whether treated conventionally, laparoscopically, or robotically, surgery aims to repair the defect and reinforce the area with a mesh, ensuring a lower chance of recurrence.

At Sahyadri Hospital, our experienced team is dedicated to providing expert care and guidance throughout your journey, from diagnosis to recovery. With tailored aftercare instructions and the necessary support, we help ensure a smooth and safe healing process. For further information or to schedule a consultation, please contact the Sahyadri Hospitals helpline. Your health is our priority, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

FAQ’s

1. What is a hernia?
   A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the surrounding muscle or tissue wall. This is commonly seen in the abdomen, particularly in areas like the groin or around surgical scars.
2. What are the main causes of a hernia?
   Hernias can result from increased pressure within the abdomen due to activities like heavy lifting, coughing, or straining during bowel movements. Genetics and age can also contribute to the development of hernias.
3. Why is surgery necessary for a hernia?

Surgery is essential for hernias because they do not improve on their own and can lead to serious complications, such as strangulation, where blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off. Surgical intervention helps to repair the defect and prevent further health issues.