Everything You Need to Know About Hernia


Hernia Treatment and Prevention

Peritoneum is a type of tissue formed as a muscular wall and separates internal organs from each other. A hernia can occur when there is a weak spot in this tissue. The weakened peritoneum can allow organs to push through the weak spots causing herniation. As a result, a bulge or lump forms on the body. 

In most cases, the bulge may set back without any external interference but in some cases it reappears causing hernia. Although hernia could be considered as a common issue, it may cause discomfort and pain based on the location. 

Continue reading the article as we dive deep and investigate the causes, symptoms, hernia treatment and preventive measures. Before that, understanding the types of hernia will help you tackle it better when it occurs as the way of treatment approach varies based on the type. 

Types of Hernia - 

  • Groin - Hernia in the groin region, medically known as femoral hernia, is common in women. The same is called inguinal if it occurs in men. 
  • Upper stomach - If the hernia occurs in the abdomen region, right above the stomach and below the chest cavity, it could be considered as hiatal or hiatus hernia. 
  • Belly button - Common in women, this hernia occurs as a result of umbilical or periumbilical hernia. 
  • Surgery - Surgery in the abdomen region can also cause a hernia and it is known as an incisional hernia. 

Causes of Hernia

Now is the time to leave the medical world leaving their head-scratching! Cause there is no particular reason as in why hernia occurs. There can be one reason that is triggered by many small reasons. So far the medical researchers have proven the science behind incisional hernia. The rest in the list can occur due to any of the below reasons or as a result of all these reasons. Confused? Read on to get clarified. 

  • Spending more than the needed time in the toilet
  • Severe and persistent cough
  • Lifting heavy weights inappropriately
  • Malnutrition and abdominal fluids
  • Undescended testicles and enlarged prostate

In some cases, excessive smoking, family history with a hernia, chronic constipation, age-factor, sex (being male), low birth or premature birth and consuming food that weakens muscle strength can also be the reasons for a hernia. 

Symptoms of Hernia

One fine day, you wake up in the morning and enjoying a hot shower. Suddenly you realize there is a bulge below your ribs. A hernia can occur as simple as that! In most cases, it does not cause pain or discomfort but there are hernias that cause these both. 

In a few cases, a hernia needs immediate medical attention. Worry not! It occurs only in a few cases. However, it is always recommendable to see a hernia specialist as soon as you realize the bulge. 

You need immediate medical attention when you feel the following - 

  • Increased pain
  • Uneasiness 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Treatment for Hernia

If the hernia is painless and not causing any discomfort, you can wait and watch for it to cure on its own (which is the case in most instances). Otherwise, your specialist will start hernia treatment and diagnosis. 

Typically, hernias are repaired by conducting an open surgery or laparoscopic surgery (which is also known as keyhole surgery). 

Prevention of Hernia - 

As the cause of a hernia is unknown, it is difficult to follow a particular method to prevent hernia. However, simple steps such as staying away from lifting weights inappropriately, watching out the sitting and sleeping position can reduce your chances of a hernia. 

Besides, consuming diet for hernia prevention that includes leafy greens, whole grains, beans and peas, lean protein, non-acidic and non-citrus foods can help you. 

If you are a person who is into probiotics, you have fewer chances of getting a hernia. Consume fermented foods such as unsweetened yogurt, kimchi, kefir, pickles, quark and sauerkraut as they are the powerhouses of probiotics. 

To conclude, leading a healthy lifestyle that ticks the right boxes such as physical activity, healthy diet, and regular health checkups can reduce your chances of getting any type of health issue let alone a hernia. Take steps to check these boxes and live a healthy and happy life!

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