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Hernia Treatment & Surgery

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Hernia Surgery in Alwarpet, Chennai

A hernia is a bulged cell formed when an internal organ protrudes into the surrounding muscle or fascia tissue. Hernias may occur in any part of the body, but the most common are in the abdomen, chest, upper thigh, and groin regions. Usually, hernias are not harmful, but a hernia in the abdominal cavity can be painful and sometimes require surgery. As hernias do not shrink on their own, seek medical attention for proper treatment.

For diagnosis and treatment, you can visit any of the gastroenterology hospitals in Chennai. Alternatively, you can search online for the best gastroenterologist near me. 

What are the different types of hernia?

There are different hernias based on their growth in the body parts. About 70-80% of the hernias are of inguinal or femoral types.

  • Inguinal Hernia: A bulge in the groin region may sometimes scroll down to the scrotum. It is most common in men.
  • Femoral Hernia: A bulge in the upper thigh below the groin is called femoral hernia and is commonly seen in women. 
  • Incisional Hernia: It may result from an abdominal scar after surgery. 
  • Umbilical Hernia: If the bulge is present around the belly region.
  • Hiatal or Hiatus Hernia: This type of hernia occurs above the stomach and reaches out into the chest cavity through the diaphragm. 

What are the symptoms of a hernia?

A hernia is an abnormal growth that may disappear when lying down. Other symptoms include:

  • Swelling at the groin or scrotum regions.
  • Discomfort or pain in the affected area
  • Increase in the size of lumps 
  • Hiatal hernias may show symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, or difficulty when swallowing. 
  • Bowel obstruction

What are the causes of hernia?

Most of the hernias result from an increase in pressure. Because of the pressure, the internal organs bulge through the weak spots of the muscle or tissues. Although they can occur for a variety of reasons that include:

  • Muscle weakness since birth
  • Increased Strain on the abdominal or groin areas
  • Aging; more common in men than women
  • Heavy lifting
  • Persistent cough
  • Overweight
  • Long-term diarrhea or constipation
  • Poor Nutrition
  • Abdominal fluid or ascites

When to see a doctor?

Seek immediate medical attention from the best gastroenterologist near you if you experience any severe pain, nausea, vomiting, discoloration, or if the bulge is still visible during coughing, laughing, or any activities. Gastrologists may perform tests like an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, MRI scan, and sometimes a barium X-ray to diagnose hernias. 

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Alwarpet, Chennai. 

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What are the treatment options for hernia?

Surgery is the only treatment for a hernia, and a hernia does not heal by itself. The doctors do not recommend the surgery for everyone who has a hernia because it may possibly lead to more complications. Most of the surgeries are performed to remove the risk of strangulation. 

  • Open surgery: In this type of surgery, a large cut is made at the affected area to push the swollen tissue back into the abdomen and stitch the muscle wall using sutures, mesh, or both. 
  • Laparoscopic surgery: Similar to open surgery but instead of a cut, they make tiny incisions at the hernia location and use a laparoscope to perform the surgery. 
  • Robotic-assisted surgery is mainly used to handle small hernias or weaker areas. Surgeons perform the procedure by handling the surgical instruments with the help of a console. 

What are the complications of hernia?

Complications are rare, but they include:

  • An inguinal hernia may damage the structures that are involved in the functioning of the testicles.
  • If the bowel becomes strangulated before surgery, it requires emergency surgery to prevent necrosis. 
  • Sometimes, hernia surgery may have a risk of nerve damage.

Conclusion:

Hernias have higher chances of protruding into the fascia because of the weakened muscles; try to overcome it by exercising and maintaining a healthy diet. To avoid potential complications further, consult a gastroenterologist near you for diagnosis at the early stages.

References

https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hernia-basics

https://www.healthline.com/health/hernia

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/142334

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000960.htm

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15757-hernia

How can a hernia be prevented?

Hernia can be prevented by maintaining balance when lifting heavy objects or losing extra weight by properly consuming fibers, fruits, grains, and vegetables. They also help to avoid constipation. Seek medical treatment if you have persistent cough or difficulty in bowel movements to avoid further complications.

What should I expect after hernia surgery?

After surgery, follow your surgeon’s instructions on a diet and care for the incision site. You cannot frequently move for some days and also avoid physical activities during recovery. Despite hernia repair, they have chances of recurrence. So avoid smoking and maintain a healthy weight as they may be a risk for hernia recurrence.

Is surgery necessary for children with a hernia?

Umbilical hernia in infants may disappear with time. However, if not healed by the age of 4 to 5 years, it requires surgery. Inguinal hernia is also most common in infants and children, and surgeons perform hernia repair primarily by using laparoscopy to avoid wound infections of open surgery.

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