What is a hernia?

A hernia is caused by a weakness or defect in the surrounding muscle or fascia (connective tissue). Hernias often happen in the abdomen. A large hernia causes the bowels and other abdominal contents to push through, causing a bulge you can feel.

You usually develop a hernia at places vulnerable to weakness, like the groin, belly button, upper stomach, and sites of old surgical incisions. 

Who develops hernias?

Hernias can be present at birth and weaken over time or develop due to consistent:

• Lifting of heavy objects without proper stabilization of the abdominal muscles
• Coughing or sneezing
• Diarrhea or constipation

Men are more likely to develop hernias. But both sexes are at increased risk if they’re obese, eat poorly, or smoke. These habits weaken your muscles, making a hernia more likely.

When do I need hernia surgery?

You’ll require hernia surgery if you start to develop a lump in the groin area that is most noticeable when standing or straining. Men often feel swelling in the scrotum and pain at the site of a lump, especially during exertion.

A  hernia tends gradually to get larger and cause more and more discomfort. You also risk a bowel getting caught in the hernia, which can be a life-threatening situation. The hernia can cut off the bowels’ blood supply, causing severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and nausea.

Hernia surgery is relatively simple, comes with minimal risk, and effectively repairs the defect. It makes sense to get your hernia repaired soon after diagnosis to avoid complications.

What is involved in hernia surgery?

Hernia surgery is done using minimally invasive techniques, like laparoscopy, whenever possible.

The exact surgical procedure depends on the kind of hernia you have. Usually, it involves an incision in the abominable wall to find the area of weakness, which is then repaired using dissolvable sutures. All tissue is replaced, and the site of the incision is sutured together to heal.

If you have a hernia that needs surgery, contact One Surgical Specialists today. Call the office or use the online tool to schedule an appointment.