How a Hernia Develops

A hernia typically forms due to a combination of muscle weakness and increased pressure inside the abdomen. When the muscle wall is not strong enough, organs or tissues push through, forming a visible bulge.

Common reasons for abdominal pressure:

• Chronic coughing

• Heavy lifting

• Weight gain

• Straining during bowel movements

Types of Hernia

1. Inguinal Hernia

Most common type; occurs in the groin area. More common in men.

2. Femoral Hernia

Occurs below the groin; more common in women.

3. Umbilical Hernia

Bulge near the belly button, often due to weakness at birth or obesity.

4. Incisional Hernia

Develops at the site of previous surgery due to weak scar tissue.

5. Hiatal Hernia

Part of the stomach pushes into the chest through the diaphragm, causing acidity and reflux.

Causes of Hernia

• Heavy lifting

• Long-term cough

• Obesity

• Pregnancy

• Constipation and straining

• Aging muscles

• Post-surgery weakness

• Smoking (weakens connective tissue)

Hernias become worse over time if not treated.

Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if you have:

• Family history of hernia

• Chronic cough (asthma, smoking, allergies)

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Poor core muscle strength

• Multiple pregnancies

• Diabetes or liver disease (causing fluid buildup)

Symptoms of Hernia

Common symptoms include:

• A visible lump in the abdomen or groin

• Pain when lifting, bending, or coughing

• Pressure or heaviness in the abdomen

• Burning or aching sensation

• Swelling around the testicles (in men with inguinal hernia)

Many people notice that the bulge becomes more visible while standing and disappears when lying down.

Symptoms of a Complicated Hernia

A strangulated or obstructed hernia is an emergency. Symptoms include:

• Sudden severe pain

• Redness over hernia site

• Fever

• Vomiting

• Constipation or blockage

• Inability to push the hernia back in

Immediate surgery is required to save the trapped organ.

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Why Hernias Should Be Treated Early

Untreated hernias can cause:

• Permanent muscle weakness

• Increasing size of bulge

• Severe pain

• Strangulation (life-threatening)

• Bowel obstruction

Surgery is the only permanent cure.

Diagnosis of Hernia

At Siddhi Vinayak Surgical Hospital, diagnosis includes:

Physical Examination

Doctor checks hernia size, position, and reducibility.

Ultrasound

Confirms location and contents of hernia.

CT Scan

Used for complicated or recurrent hernias.

Treatment Options

1. Conservative Care (Temporary Relief)

• Belt or truss support (not recommended long-term)

• Lifestyle changes
  These do NOT cure the hernia.

2. Surgical Repair – Permanent Solution

There are two main types:

Open Hernia Repair

A small incision is made, and mesh is placed to reinforce the area.

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

Advanced, minimally invasive technique with quicker recovery.

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Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic surgery is performed through 2–3 tiny incisions using a camera and fine instruments.

Benefits:

• Less pain

• Minimal scars

• Short hospital stay

• Faster return to work

• Low infection risk

• Strong mesh reinforcement

Dr. Ghanshyam Parmar specializes in laparoscopic mesh repair for lasting results.

Recovery After Hernia Surgery

Most patients recover quickly, especially with laparoscopic repair.

Recovery guidelines:

• Walk gently from day one

• Avoid heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks

• Eat a soft, fiber-rich diet

• Keep the wound clean and dry

• Regular follow-up visits

Most people return to office work within 5–10 days.

How to Prevent a Hernia

Although not all hernias are preventable, you can reduce risk by:

• Maintaining ideal body weight

• Avoiding heavy lifting

• Strengthening core muscles

• Eating fiber-rich diets

• Treating chronic cough and constipation

• Avoiding smoking