Treatment FAQ

what is the treatment for hernias

by Alta Daniel Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The only way to effectively treat a hernia is through surgical repair. Whether or not you need surgery depends on the size of your hernia and the severity of your symptoms. Your doctor may want to simply monitor your hernia for possible complications. This approach is called watchful waiting.

Medication

You meet two out of the three criteria for medication treatment. A hiatal hernia alone isn’t necessarily a reason not to get an oral bisphosphonate like alendronate (Fosamax), and I don’t have enough information about your stomach problem to say ...

Procedures

Part 2 Part 2 of 3: Making Lifestyle Changes

  1. Eat smaller meals. If you're experiencing heartburn from a hiatal hernia, put less pressure on your stomach.
  2. Reduce pressure on your abdomen. Wear clothing that doesn’t constrict your stomach or abdomen. ...
  3. Lose weight. If you're overweight, you're putting extra pressure on your stomach and abdominal muscles.
  4. Exercise key muscles. ...
  5. Stop smoking. ...

Self-care

Patients usually go back to feeling normal again within four to six weeks after hernia repair surgery. However, it is still best to discuss recovery time after hernia surgery with your doctor, as some types of hernia repair may need longer recovery times.

Nutrition

What to Expect Before and After Hiatal Hernia Surgery in Tampa

  • Choose the Minimally Invasive Option. There are two main types of hiatal hernia surgery: open and minimally invasive. ...
  • Preparing for Your Hiatal Hernia Surgery. Before your hiatal hernia surgery in Tampa, Dr. ...
  • After Your Hiatal Hernia Surgery. ...

How do you cure a hernia?

How do you relieve hernia pain?

How long does it take to recover from hernia surgery?

What to expect before and after hernia surgery?

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How do you treat a hernia without surgery?

A hernia usually does not go away without surgery. Non-surgical approaches such as wearing a corset, binder, or truss may exert gentle pressure on the hernia and keep it in place. These methods may ease the pain or discomfort and may be used if you are not fit for the surgery or awaiting surgery.

How serious is a hernia?

An inguinal hernia isn't necessarily dangerous. It doesn't improve on its own, however, and can lead to life-threatening complications. Your doctor is likely to recommend surgery to fix an inguinal hernia that's painful or enlarging. Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure.

How do doctors treat hernias?

How is a hernia treated? Hernias usually do not get better on their own, and surgery may be the only way to repair them. However, your doctor will recommend the best therapy to address your hernia, and may refer you to a surgeon.

Can hernia be cured by itself?

That's one of the most common questions doctors hear when it comes to hernias. Unfortunately, the answer is no. While a hernia cannot heal itself, it can almost always be treated effectively with surgery.

What are the warning signs of a hernia?

Signs and Symptoms of a HerniaAn obvious swelling beneath the skin of the abdomen or the groin. ... A heavy feeling in the abdomen that sometimes comes with constipation or blood in the stool.Discomfort in the abdomen or groin when lifting or bending over.A burning or aching sensation at the bulge.More items...

What is the main cause of hernia?

Ultimately, all hernias are caused by a combination of pressure and an opening or weakness of muscle or fascia; the pressure pushes an organ or tissue through the opening or weak spot. Sometimes the muscle weakness is present at birth; more often, it occurs later in life.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

If it is left untreated, a strangulated hernia can lead to life-threatening conditions such as necrotizing enterocolitis (severe inflammation of intestine) and sepsis. Since hernias can happen to anyone at any age, knowing warning signs of hernias and being aware of them are essential.

What is the fastest way to relieve hernia pain?

Over-the-counter pain medications can relieve discomfort associated with an inguinal hernia. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen, or naproxen can be taken, depending on individual preference. 3. Call as soon as possible for a follow-up appointment with your personal/referral surgeon.

What is the best medicine for hernia?

Best medications for a hiatal herniaBest medications for hiatal herniaDrug nameDrug classOTC or RxMaalox (aluminum hydroxide)AntacidOTCTums (calcium carbonate)AntacidOTCPepcid (famotidine)H2 antagonistOTC3 more rows•Oct 5, 2020

What are the 3 types of hernias?

Hernias are less common in women than in men, however hernias in women can cause chronic pelvic pain, and hernia repair is very effective at eliminating the cause of this pain. The main types of hernias that can develop in women are – indirect inguinal hernias, femoral hernias and umbilical hernias.

Is hernia surgery painful?

While you may experience pain before and after hernia surgery, you will likely be asleep during surgery and will not feel any pain. In most open, laparoscopic and robotic hernia repairs, your hernia surgery will use general anesthesia during the procedure.

How can you prevent a hernia from getting worse?

If you have a hernia, try to keep it from getting worse:Avoid heavy lifting when you can. Lifting puts stress on the groin.When you must lift, don't bend over. Lift objects by using the legs, not the back.Eat high-fiber foods and drink plenty of water. ... Maintain a healthy body weight.

What is the procedure for a hernia?

Conventional Medicine for a Hernia. Hernia surgery is performed under either local or general anesthesia. The surgeon repositions the herniated tissue and, if strangulation has occurred, removes the oxygen-starved part of the organ. The damaged muscle wall will frequently be repaired with synthetic mesh or tissue.

How to diagnose a hernia?

How Is a Hernia Diagnosed? A physical exam by your health care provider is often enough to diagnose a hernia. Sometimes hernia swelling is visible when you stand upright; usually, the hernia can be felt if you place your hand directly over it and then bear down.

How long does it take to recover from a hernia surgery?

Complete recovery usually takes three to four weeks, with no heavy lifting for two to three months.

What happens if you have a strangulated hernia?

A strangulated intestinal hernia may result in intestinal obstruction, causing the abdomen to swell.

What is the device used to repair a hernia?

The abdomen is then inflated with carbon dioxide to provide room for the surgeon to work, and the hernia is repaired with a small, flexible device called a laparoscope. Mesh is sometimes required to secure and reinforce the hernia.

What is abdominal wall reconstruction?

Abdominal wall reconstruction repairs defects in the abdominal walls while reducing abdominal tension and providing structural support. This may require a component separation to be performed so that the muscle edges of the hernia gap can be brought back together again.

Can you have an open procedure for a hernia?

Open procedures are ideally suited for patients with large or multiple hernias. Patients who have had prior abdominal surgery are also good candidates for open procedures, as scar tissue in the abdomen forms adhesions that can make minimally invasive operations difficult or even dangerous.

What is the best treatment for a hernia?

If someone is diagnosed with a hernia, following natural remedies can help in getting relief from the symptoms of hernia: 1. Castor seed oil. This particular oil addresses stomach problems. Castor oil helps to inhibit inflammation inside the stomach and promote proper digestion.

How to heal a hernia?

Go for brisk walks for at least 30 mins every day. 10. Vegetable juice. One of the most effective natural remedies is a glass of vegetable juice – carrot, spinach, onions, broccoli, and kale. The nutrients and anti-inflammatory nature of vegetables help to soothe the burning and painful symptoms caused due to hernia.

How to get rid of a hernia in stomach?

Consume concentrated ginger juice or raw ginger to sort relief from the pain and discomfort in your stomach. It boosts your health system at the same time. It restricts the stomach from producing gastric juices which generally occurs during hiatal hernia.

What is a hernia in the abdomen?

A hernia is defined as a bulging organ or fatty tissue through a soft or weak spot in the abdomen. Some facts about hernia which you must know. A hernia doesn’t cause any signs and symptoms initially. With time, the individual is likely to experience nausea, chest pain, unable to swallow food, acid reflux, etc.

How to diagnose a hernia?

Doctors diagnose a hernia simply by feeling or looking at the bulge in the affected area. After a hernia is diagnosed, medical attention is always advised. Fortunately, there are several natural remedies as well as some lifestyle changes that can provide relief from symptoms of hernia without any surgery.

How to reduce the risk of developing a hernia?

Moreover, to lower the risk of developing a hernia, you can consume this juice before every meal. 3. Ice packs. When you suffer from a hernia, there can be inflammation and pain in the abdomen. Ice packs trigger contraction when applied to the affected area and reduce inflammation inside the body.

What are the causes of hernias?

Another major factor that contributes to the formation of hernia is stress. Excessive stress can put more strain on your metabolism as a whole. Some stress-reducing activities include yoga, meditation, massage and use of essential oils and aromatherapy. Evidently, the following yoga asanas can provide relief-

How to repair a hernia?

They may repair your hernia by sewing the hole in the abdominal wall closed during surgery. This is commonly done by patching the hole with surgical mesh.

How does an open hernia surgery work?

During open surgery, the surgeon makes an incision close to the site of the hernia, and then pushes the bulging tissue back into the abdomen. They then sew the area shut, sometimes reinforcing it with surgical mesh. Finally, they close the incision.

What causes a hernia in the ventral area?

Common factors in ventral hernia formation include things like obesity, strenuous activity, and pregnancy. Ventral hernias can also happen at the site of a surgical incision. This is called an incisional hernia and can happen due to surgical scarring or weakness of the abdominal muscles at the surgical site.

What is a hernia in pregnancy?

In babies. Pregnancy. Complications. Prevention. A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. For example, the intestines may break through a weakened area in the abdominal wall.

What is the term for a hernia in the abdomen?

Hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia occurs when part of your stomach protrudes up through the diaphragm into your chest cavity. The diaphragm is a sheet of muscle that helps you breathe by contracting and drawing air into the lungs. It separates the organs in your abdomen from those in your chest.

How do you know if your child has an umbilical hernia?

If your child has an umbilical hernia, you may notice it more when they’re crying or coughing. Typically, umbilical hernias in children are painless. However, when symptoms such as pain, vomiting, or swelling at the hernia site occur, you should seek emergency medical attention.

How do you know if you have a hernia?

Symptoms of a hernia. The most common symptom of a hernia is a bulge or lump in the affected area. For example, in the case of an inguinal hernia, you may notice a lump on either side of your pubic bone where your groin and thigh meet. You may find that the lump disappears when you’re lying down. You’re more likely to feel your hernia ...

How to treat a small hernia?

Treatment. If your hernia is small and isn't bothering you, your doctor might recommend watchful waiting. Sometimes, wearing a supportive truss may help relieve symptoms, but check with your doctor first because it's important that the truss fits properly, and is being used appropriately. In children, the doctor might try applying manual pressure ...

How does a hernia surgery work?

The surgeon may use laparoscopic or robotic instruments to repair your hernia. Gas is used to inflate your abdomen to make the internal organs easier to see.

How does an open hernia repair work?

In this procedure, which might be done with local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision in your groin and pushes the protruding tissue back into your abdomen. The surgeon then sews the weakened area, often reinforcing it with a synthetic mesh (hernioplasty).

How to diagnose an inguinal hernia?

A physical exam is usually all that's needed to diagnose an inguinal hernia. Your doctor will check for a bulge in the groin area. Because standing and coughing can make a hernia more prominent, you'll likely be asked to stand and cough or strain.

Can a hernia recur after surgery?

Minimally invasive hernia surgery allows the surgeon to avoid scar tissue from an earlier hernia repair, so it might be a good choice for people whose hernias recur after open hernia surgery. It also might be a good choice for people with hernias on both sides of the body (bilateral).

How is a hernia repaired?

In open hernia repair, called a hernioplasty, the surgeon makes an incision in your groin and pushes the protruding tissue back into your abdomen. The surgeon then sews the weakened area, often reinforcing it with a synthetic mesh. Then the opening is closed with stitches, staples or surgical glue. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and sedation, or general anesthesia.

What happens if an inguinal hernia doesn't improve?

The resulting bulge can be painful. And if the inguinal hernia doesn't improve on its own, it can lead to life-threatening complications.

Why is laparoscopic surgery important?

The main advantages of laparoscopic hernia repair are lower risk of infection, less postoperative pain, and quicker return to work or normal activities. These advantages are amplified for patients with hernias on both sides of their abdomens or recurrent inguinal hernias. Laparoscopy allows the surgeon to avoid scar tissue from an earlier hernia ...

What is the procedure called when you have a small incision in your abdomen?

Laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that requires general anesthesia. In this procedure, the surgeon operates through several small incisions in your abdomen. A small tube equipped with a tiny camera, called a laparoscope, is inserted into one incision.

Can an inguinal hernia be pushed back?

They can change in size with activity and usually will pop out during strenuous activity or lifting. These hernias usually can be able pushed back. One must lay down flat to accomplish this. Then inguinal hernias can progress to discomfort, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain.

Can a hernia recur after surgery?

Laparoscopy allows the surgeon to avoid scar tissue from an earlier hernia repair, so it might be a good choice for people whose hernias recur after open hernia surgery. If hernias are left untreated with no symptoms, 75 percent of patients will develop some sort of symptoms in the future.

What doctor can diagnose a hiatal hernia?

If you've been diagnosed with a hiatal hernia and your problems persist after you make lifestyle changes and start medication, you might be referred to a doctor who specializes in digestive diseases (gastroenterologist).

What is the procedure to see the upper intestine?

These tests or procedures include: X-ray of your upper digestive system. X-rays are taken after you drink a chalky liquid that coats and fills the inside lining of your digestive tract. The coating allows your doctor to see a silhouette of your esophagus, stomach and upper intestine. Upper endoscopy.

What is the procedure to insert a tube down your throat and into your esophagus?

Endoscopy. Endoscopy. An endoscopy procedure involves inserting a long, flexible tube (endoscope) down your throat and into your esophagus. A tiny camera on the end of the endoscope lets your doctor examine your esophagus, stomach and the beginning of your small intestine (duodenum). A hiatal hernia is often discovered during a test ...

How to avoid heartburn?

Avoid foods that trigger heartburn, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine. Avoid lying down after a meal or eating late in the day. Maintain a healthy weight. Stop smoking.

What is the best medicine for esophageal cancer?

Medications that block acid production and heal the esophagus. These medications — known as proton pump inhibitors — are stronger acid blockers than H-2-receptor blockers and allow time for damaged esophageal tissue to heal.

How does laparoscopic surgery work?

In laparoscopic surgery, your surgeon inserts a tiny camera and special surgical tools through several small incisions in your abdomen. The operation is then performed while your surgeon views images from inside your body that are displayed on a video monitor.

Do you need surgery for a hernia?

Most people with a hiatal hernia don't experience any signs or symptoms and won't need treatment. If you experience signs and symptoms, such as recurrent heartburn and acid reflux, you may need medication or surgery.

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