Procedures
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
A hernia usually does not go away without surgery. With that said, it is important to properly diagnose your specific situation. There are plenty of benefits associated with being proactive about your hernia repair, whether inguinal or umbilical.
How long does it take to recover from hernia surgery?
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Can a hernia be repaired without surgery?
Not everyone who has a hernia has symptoms. And not every hernia requires repair. Some small hernias don’t need treatment if they’re not bothering you. One of the common questions patients have is “What would happen if I don’t get it fixed?” The biggest fear is that a loop of intestine or some fat may end up getting stuck in the opening.
How to relieve pain after hernia repair?
Do hernias always need to be fixed?
How do you know when a hernia is an emergency?
You should go your nearest A&E straight away if you have a hernia and you develop any of the following symptoms: sudden, severe pain. being sick. difficulty pooing or passing wind.
When should you seek immediate attention for hernia?
Symptoms of a hernia in need of emergency treatment include: Severe pain, swelling or redness at the hernia site. Hernia bulge growing quickly. Nausea and/or vomiting.
Should I go to ER for inguinal hernia?
The visible bulge of the hernia will become firm to the touch. If you suspect a strangulated hernia, rush to the ER for immediate treatment to prevent tissue death.
How long can you leave an inguinal hernia untreated?
If this condition is left untreated longer than 6 hours, incarcerated hernia can cut off blood flow to part of the intestine, resulting in strangulated hernia.
How do I know if my inguinal hernia is strangulated?
Signs and symptoms of a strangulated hernia include:Nausea, vomiting or both.Fever.Sudden pain that quickly intensifies.A hernia bulge that turns red, purple or dark.Inability to move your bowels or pass gas.
How long can you wait to have hernia surgery?
Many people are able to delay surgery for months or even years. And some people may never need surgery for a small hernia. If the hernia is small and you don't have any symptoms, or if the symptoms don't bother you much, you and your doctor may simply continue to watch for symptoms to occur.
What are the chances of an inguinal hernia becoming strangulated?
After 3 months the cumulative probability of strangulation for inguinal hernias was 2.8 per cent, rising to 4.5 per cent after 2 years. For femoral hernias the cumulative probability of strangulation was 22 per cent at 3 months and 45 per cent at 21 months.
What happens if inguinal hernia left untreated?
Hernia Obstruction and Strangulation If left untreated, it's common for a hernia to get bigger and more painful. And the longer you have a hernia, the greater your risk of developing complications.
How urgent is hernia surgery?
Patients without severe pain can have urgent surgery within a few weeks. Patients with severe pain often need emergency surgery and are best evaluated in an emergency room.
How can I prevent my inguinal 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 does a strangulated hernia feel like?
Share on Pinterest Alongside a bulge, symptoms of a strangulated hernia may include fever, fatigue, nausea, and excruciating pain. One common indication of a strangulated hernia is an easily visible bulge in the areas of the abdomen or pelvis.
Is it worth getting hernia surgery?
Many doctors recommend surgery because it prevents strangulation, which happens when a piece of tissue gets trapped inside the hernia and is cut off from its blood supply. I'm not sureIt may help to go back and read "Get the Facts." Many doctors recommend surgery because it prevents a problem called strangulation.
What to do if you suspect an inguinal hernia?
If you suspect you or your child has an inguinal hernia, you should seek medical attention. If it is not treated, an inguinal hernia can develop into a serious condition.
How do you repair an inguinal hernia?
There are 3 types of inguinal hernia repair: Open hernia repair: A surgical procedure in which an incision, or cut, is made in the groin. The surgeon then pushes the hernia back into the abdomen and strengthens the abdominal wall with mesh and stitches.
Why are inguinal hernias more common in later life?
Hernias can be on one or both sides of the abdomen. Direct inguinal hernias are more common later in life because the abdominal wall weakens with age.
How many types of inguinal hernias are there?
There are 2 types of inguinal hernias:
What is robotic hernia repair?
Robotic hernia repair: Like laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery uses a laparoscope, and is performed in the same manner (small incisions, a tiny camera and projecting the inside of the abdomen onto television screens).
What is the best way to check for a hernia?
An abdominal X-ray or CT scan may be ordered to look for a hernia and determine if it is strangulated or incarcerated.
Where do hernias occur?
Hernias can occur around the belly button, through a surgical scar, in the diaphragm, or in the groin (the area between the abdomen and the thigh on both sides of the body).
What is an incisional hernia?
Incisional hernias occur when tissue or an organ protrudes through scar tissue or an incision from a previous surgical procedure.
Why do people have hernias?
A majority of hernia cases are caused by stress, a weak abdominal wall, strenuous activity, chronic sneezing and coughing, difficulty urinating or moving bowels, and pregnancy. Many physicians elect to watch and wait after a hernia is diagnosed as long as it is small and there are no real symptoms. Surgery to repair this abnormality in ...
How many types of hernias are there?
There are three main types of hernias:
Can a hernia be painful?
Most people are aware that they have a hernia even without a significant bulge. They feel a discomfort or become aware that “something’s there.” It becomes more noticeable when they stand or sit for long periods of time. It can be painful when they cough or lift something heavy.
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.
Why do people have laparoscopy after hernia 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.
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.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia happens when organs or abdominal tissue push through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. The abdominal wall is made of fat and muscle. It holds the intestines in place. The hernia may contain fluid, tissue from the abdomen, or part of an organ (such as an intestine).
How to prevent hernia from getting worse?
Foods that contain fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains. Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, weight loss may prevent your hernia from getting worse. It may also prevent another hernia.
What medicine can help with a swollen stomach?
Medicine: You may need the following: NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you.
What does it feel like to have a hernia?
Your abdomen is larger than usual. Your hernia gets bigger or is purple or blue. You see blood in your bowel movements. You feel weak, dizzy, or faint.
Can weight loss cause a hernia?
If you are overweight, weight loss may prevent your hernia from getting worse. It may also prevent another hernia. Talk to your healthcare provider about exercise and how to lose weight safely if you are overweight. Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can weaken the abdominal wall.
Can smoking cigarettes cause hernias?
Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can weaken the abdominal wall. This may increase your risk for another hernia. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit.
Can heavy lifting cause a hernia?
Do not lift anything heavy. Heavy lifting can make your hernia worse or cause another hernia. Ask your healthcare provider how much is safe for you to lift. Drink liquids as directed. Liquids may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement.
How do doctors diagnose inguinal hernias?
To diagnose an inguinal hernia, your doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms and perform a physical exam. In some cases, doctors also order imaging tests.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia is a bulging of the contents of the abdomen through a weak area in the lower abdominal wall. Inguinal hernias can occur at either of two passages through the lower abdominal wall, one on each side of the groin. These passages are called inguinal canals. Inguinal hernias can also occur through two deeper passages in the groin called the femoral canals. Hernias through these passages are also known as femoral hernias.
What are the complications of inguinal hernias?
Inguinal hernias may become stuck, or incarcerated, meaning the contents of the hernia that bulge through the abdominal wall cannot be massaged back inside the abdominal wall.
What are the risks of hernia surgery?
Surgery to repair an inguinal hernia is quite safe. However, possible complications of hernia surgery include
What happens if a hernia is stuck outside the abdominal wall?
If a hernia becomes stuck outside the abdominal wall, it may become strangulated, meaning the blood flow to the hernia is cut off. Lack of blood flow can cause the death of tissues inside the hernia.
What part of the peritoneum is the inguinal hernia?
Inguinal hernias most often contain fat or part of the small intestine. In girls or women, inguinal hernias may contain part of the female reproductive system, such as an ovary. When an inguinal hernia occurs, part of the peritoneum—the lining of the abdominal cavity—bulges through the abdominal wall and forms a sac around the hernia.
How common are inguinal hernias?
Inguinal hernias are more common in certain age groups. Among adults, the chance of having an inguinal hernia increases with age, and inguinal hernias are most common in people ages of 75 to 80. 2. Among children, inguinal hernias are most common in those between the ages of 0 and 5 years. 2. Among infants, inguinal hernias are more common in ...
What is the term for a hernia in the groin area?
An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue bulges through a weak spot in your groin area. You may see or feel a tender bulge in the groin or scrotum. You may also have pain, pressure or burning, or a feeling that something has "given way."
Why do my hernias get worse?
Hernias are caused by a weakness in the belly wall. The bulge or discomfort may occur after heavy lifting, straining, or coughing. Hernias do not heal on their own, and they tend to get worse over time.
Can smoking cause a hernia to bulge?
Do not smoke. Smoking can cause coughing, which can cause your hernia to bulge. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
What is an incisional hernia?
Incisional hernia: An incisional hernia involves a weak spot due to a surgical incision. If a hernia occurs there, internal tissues may protrude through the site of the incision.
Where do hernias occur?
Hernias can occur almost anywhere, but they happen most often in the abdominal area, above the hips and below the chest. Specific types include:
What is a hernia in medical terms?
A hernia is what happens when part of an internal organ or fatty tissue protrudes through the muscle or tissue that usually contains it. In most cases, hernias happen due to a strained or weakened muscle that starts to tear. Symptoms of a hernia can be mistaken for other things but M.D. Express Urgent Care is able to diagnose a hernia and provide the proper guidance for your next steps.
Where does a femoral hernia occur?
Femoral hernia: Common in older women, femoral hernias occur when part of the intestine or some fatty tissue protrudes into the groin at the top of the inner thigh, near the head of the femur.
Can a hernia cause shortness of breath?
Hiatal hernias may also cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, acid reflux, and difficulty swallowing.
Can a hernia be strangulated?
A strangulated hernia happens when enough of the tissue or internal organ is trapped outside the abdominal muscle that its blood supply is cut off. The visible bulge of the hernia will become firm to the touch. If you suspect a strangulated hernia, rush to the ER for immediate treatment to prevent tissue death.
How do you know if you have a hernia in your groin?
Symptoms of abdominal or groin hernias include: A bulge or lump in your groin. A pulling sensation in your groin, with or without a bulge.
How to tell if a hernia is strangulated?
Nausea and/or vomiting. Constipation and/or bloating. Fever. If you experience any of the above symptoms of a strangulated hernia, contact your primary care provider as soon as symptoms occur. If you cannot contact your primary care provider, go to the closest emergency room.
What is the most common symptom of a hernia?
The most common symptom of inguinal, incisional, umbilical and ventral hernias is a painful lump or bulge underneath the skin where the hernia occurs. This can be in the groin or in the abdomen and is caused by intestine or other soft tissue pushing through a weakness or gap in the abdominal wall. Usually, the protrusion is more pronounced ...
Can a hernia cause heartburn?
Hiatal hernias occur when the stomach pushes up into the chest through a small opening in the diaphragm—the muscle that separates the abdomen from the chest—and often do not cause any symptoms aside from mild heartburn. Only a trained health care provider can properly evaluate your condition.
Is my hernia a medical emergency?
Hernias become a medical emergency if the intestine—or esophagus, in the case of hiatal hernias—becomes trapped or incarcerated, cutting off its own blood supply. When blood supply is cut off, a condition known as strangulation, tissue can quickly die or become necrotic and cause a life-threatening infection that requires immediate surgical removal of the affected intestine.
What is the first step in treating a symptomatic hiatal hernia?
According to a 2019 research review, one of the first steps in treating symptomatic hiatal hernia is addressing gastric acid secretion. Recommendations include:
How do you know if you have a hernia?
If you have a hiatal hernia, be aware of symptoms that may indicate blood flow to your stomach has been blocked by an obstruction or a strangulated hernia. Call your doctor immediately if you: can’t pass gas or empty your bowels. feel nauseated. experience vomiting.
How common is hiatal hernia?
According to the Esophageal Cancer Awareness Association (ECAA), hiatal hernias are quite common, occurring in up to 60 percent of people by the time they are 60 years old. They also note that it’s unusual for serious conditions to develop from this type of hernia.
What is the best medicine for a swollen abdomen?
taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as antacids, such as Gaviscon (aluminum with magnesium hydroxide) or H-blockers (such as Pepcid AC or famotidine) avoiding tight clothing that can increase the pressure on your abdomen, such as a tight belt, control top hosiery, and body shapers.
What to do if home treatment is not effective?
If home treatment is not effective, your doctor may recommend prescription medication or, in some cases, surgery.
What to do when you have a swollen stomach?
self-massage, massaging your abdominal muscles in a downward motion while lying on your back on a flat surface. consuming apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, aloe vera, slippery elm, or chamomile.
Can overweight people get hiatus hernia?
Pandolfino, MD stated that, “Obese people are certainly more prone to the development of hiatus hernia.”. This leads to the conclusion that, if you are overweight, reducing your weight could lower your chances of experiencing a hiatal hernia.
