Answers to Your Questions About Hernia
Dr. Ronald Cooper
What Is A Hernia?
A hernia is a protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening in the body. Most hernias occur when a piece of intestine slips through a weakness in the abdominal wall, creating a bulge you can see and feel. Hernias can develop around the naval, in the groin, or any place where you may have had a surgical incision. Some hernias are present at birth. Others develop slowly over a period of months or years. Hernias can also come on quite suddenly.
What Does A Hernia Feel Like?
A hernia can be both seen and felt. You may notice it as a lump in your abdomen or groin that may or may not disappear when you lie down. You also may be aware of a dull aching sensation that becomes more pronounced when you are active.
Why Does A Hernia Hurt?
The discomfort you feel - especially when you cough, lift something heavy, or stand for a long time - comes from the constant pressure of tissue pushing its way through the weakened spot in your body. As more tissue pushes through the weakened area, the feeling of pressure increases. A hernia that develops or worsens quickly can produce a sudden intense pain as it enlarges.
Who Gets Hernias?
According to rhe National Center for Health Statistics, approximately five million Americans have hernias. Hernias in the groin area (inguinal hernias) are most present in men, primarily because of the unsupported space left in the groin after the testicles descend into the scrotum. Hernias in the femoral area, at the top of the thigh, occur most often in women. They commonly result from pregnancy and childbirth.
Will My Hernia Go Away?
An untreated hernia will not get better on its own, although it may not get worse for months or even years. A hernia that can be easily pushed back or flattened (reducible hernia) is generally not an immediate danger to your health, although it can be painful. A non-reducible hernia, however, can become life-threatening if part of the intestine gets trapped, or strangulated, in the opening. This is also called an incarcerated hernia and in an emergency situation may require immediate surgery.
What Can I Do To Feel Better?
Limiting activity or eliminating excess weight may provide temporary relief. Wearing a truss or binder has also offered temporary relief. The only cure, however, is surgery. There are two reasons for hernia surgery: to correct or prevent a dangerous strangulated hernia, and to eliminate the pain that may be interfering with your normal activity. Although there are always risks and side effects asssociated with surgery, today's surgical techniques provide patients with treatment options that offer minimal post-operative discomfort, speedy recovery, and lasting relief.
Is Surgery Right For Me?
Whether you should have surgery is a question only your doctor can help you answer. Your doctor can tell you more about your condition and treatment options for painful and life-threatening hernias. There is no need to suffer in silence. Your doctor is there to help.
EACH YEAR, NEARLY 700,000 AMERICANS SEEK TREATMENT FOR A HERNIA.
PHYSICIAN EXPERTS BELIEVE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS MORE CHOOSE TO SUFFER IN SILENCE.
If you suspect you have a hernia, but have avoided treatment because you are worried about the discomfort and recuperation time of surgery, talk with your doctor. You may discover there are now options available that may offer you less post-operative discomfort and shorter recuperation than you might expect. A hernia can not only be painful, but also potentially life threatening. Therefore, it is important to see your doctor if you have signs of a hernia. While treatment is not always immediately necessary, a careful evaluation by your doctor will help safeguard your health and comfort. Your doctor can discuss with you the various treatment options and the associated risks and benefits of each.
This booklet is made possible through the cooperative efforts of your physician and Davol Inc. "Answers to Your Questions About Hernia" is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Only your surgeon can diagnose and appropriately treat your hernia.
