When it comes to hernias, patients often have many questions for their surgeons. Common questions include why surgery is necessary, what the procedure involves, and what recovery will be like. Patients want to understand the different surgical options, potential risks, and how experienced their surgeon is. These discussions help patients feel more informed and confident about their treatment decisions and expectations.
Hernias occur when internal tissue or organs push through a weakened area of muscle or connective tissue, causing a bulge. They can be present from birth or develop later due to factors like heavy lifting, chronic coughing, constipation, or lifestyle habits such as smoking and obesity. Common types include inguinal, umbilical, and hiatal.
Symptoms vary but often include visible lumps and discomfort. While small hernias may be monitored, surgery is typically recommended for repair, using techniques from open to minimally invasive approaches. Evansville Surgical Associates offers expert, personalized hernia treatment to promote faster recovery and safety.
1. What Causes Hernias?
You can be born with a hernia or develop one later on in life. Hernias are caused by pressure inside the body forcing tissue or organs up through:
- A pre-existing opening
- Weakened muscle tissue
- Weakened connective tissue
The pushing of the organ to another location causes bulging under the skin.
The pressure that results in a hernia can have different causes. A common cause for those occurring later in life is lifting heavy objects incorrectly. Proper lifting involves your back, which helps stabilize your abdominal muscles and protects your core.
Other common causes of hernias include:
- Constipation
- Constant sneezing
- Coughing too hard
- Constant heavy lifting
Hernias can also be the result of an unhealthy lifestyle. For instance, smoking, an unhealthy diet, and obesity can all cause you to be more likely to develop a hernia.
2. What Are the Different Kinds of Hernias?
Hernias come in three main types that are categorized based on where the herniated tissue or organ is located. Some are more common in adults than in children, although anyone can develop these hernias.
The three most common types of hernias are:
- Inguinal hernia
- Umbilical hernia
- Hiatal hernia
Inguinal hernias are one of the most common types that people develop. They’re caused by an organ that pushes through the abdominal muscles and into the lower abdomen. This type can be especially painful when lifting a heavy object, bending over, or even coughing. They tend to present in the groin with a bulge on either side of the pubic bone.
Umbilical Hernias are the result of the intestine pushing through an opening or weak tissue near your belly button. Infants tend to get them more. Adults, on the other hand, often require surgery. These hernias are visible around the navel and tend to be painless. However, seek medical attention immediately if you experience vomiting or pain.
Hiatal hernias develop when your stomach is pushed up into the same opening your esophagus passes through (the hiatus). These hernias can differ in size, which can influence the treatment you receive. Small hiatal hernias often go unnoticed with minimal symptoms. Large ones can result in more noticeable symptoms and may require treatment.
While these are the most common types of hernias, there are others that it’s possible to develop.
3. What Are the Symptoms of a Hernia?
Hernia symptoms can vary depending on the type. The most common symptom is a bulge or lump under the skin in the affected area. These bulges can disappear depending on your position. They may go away while lying down but become visible when you’re standing, bending, or coughing.
Hiatal hernias have more specific symptoms, such as:
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
In many cases, hernias may not have symptoms. This is because they can be so small that they’re only picked up during a routine physical or other medical exam.
4. How Are They Treated?
Hernia treatment is tailored to the type and location of the hernia. In some cases, especially with smaller hernias, surgery may not be needed right away. Instead, your doctor may recommend monitoring your condition to see if symptoms progress before considering surgical repair.
When surgery is necessary, it remains the most effective option for hernia repair. Your surgeon will evaluate your specific needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. Depending on factors such as the hernia’s size, location, and your overall health, they may suggest one of several approaches. These can include minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, traditional open surgery, or robotically assisted procedures.
Each method offers different benefits in terms of recovery, scar size, and overall outcome. Your surgeon will guide you toward the option that best fits your situation and treatment goals.
5. Are Hernia Trusses Necessary?
A hernia truss is a supportive garment often used for inguinal hernias that develop in the lower abdomen. Worn beneath clothing, a truss or belt helps hold the hernia in place, preventing bulging and easing associated discomfort during daily activities.
While these devices can provide short-term relief, they are not considered a cure for the underlying condition. In some cases, a doctor may recommend using a truss temporarily to manage mild symptoms or delay worsening discomfort.
However, when hernia symptoms progress to the point where a truss is required for relief, this often indicates that surgical repair should be considered. Surgery remains the only long-term solution to correct the hernia and prevent future complications, while trusses serve only as a short-term measure to reduce pain and maintain comfort until definitive treatment is pursued.
6. What Is Surgical Mesh and Is It Safe?
Surgical mesh is a medical implant commonly used in hernia repair to reinforce and support weakened or damaged tissue. Made from either synthetic materials or processed animal tissue, mesh is designed to reduce the risk of the hernia recurring.
While surgical mesh has been linked to complications in the past, the products most associated with higher risks have since been recalled. This history has led some patients to question whether mesh is the right option for their repair. Like any surgery, hernia repair using mesh carries some level of risk, but it can also improve outcomes and lower recurrence rates.
The decision to use surgical mesh should be made in consultation with your surgeon. They’ll take into account your specific condition, health history, and treatment goals to determine whether it’s the most appropriate and effective solution for your hernia repair.
7. Can a Hernia Cause Complications?
It is possible to develop complications from a hernia. Incarcerated hernias occur when the contents inside the hernia become trapped inside the muscle, requiring immediate medical attention. This type of hernia can become strangulated without treatment.
Other serious complications from hernias include:
- A sudden increase in pain
- The bulge turning a dark red color
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Fever
If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor or 911 immediately. They are signs that something is seriously wrong and that you require immediate medical treatment.
8. How Are Hernias Diagnosed?
Hernias are diagnosed primarily through a physical examination by a healthcare provider who looks for a bulge or lump in the abdominal wall. Bulges may become more noticeable when you cough, stand, or strain.
Diagnosis can be challenging in some cases, especially in patients with obesity, prior abdominal surgery, or abdominal wall scarring, which can mask the hernia. When physical exams are inconclusive, imaging techniques are used.
Ultrasound may help differentiate hernias from other masses, while computed tomography (CT) scans are preferred for their detailed cross-sectional images of the abdominal wall. CT scans can accurately identify the hernia’s size, location, content, and potential complications like bowel obstruction or strangulation, especially useful post-abdominal surgery.
MRI is less commonly used but may assist in complex cases. Imaging aids surgical planning by showing the anatomy and condition of the abdominal wall, helping surgeons decide on the best repair method.
9. Are Hernias Hereditary?
A family history of hernias is an important risk factor to consider when assessing hernia risk and potential need for monitoring or preventive care. This may be particularly true for inguinal hernias, where a family history significantly raises the risk of developing one. Individuals with relatives who have had inguinal hernia surgery are more likely to develop hernias themselves.
While there is no clear-cut inheritance pattern, genetic factors contribute to the weakening of the abdominal wall and connective tissues, increasing susceptibility. Genes related to connective tissue structure, such as those affecting collagen and elastin, may play a role. However, environmental factors and lifestyle also influence hernia development. Some types of hernias might have different genetic influences.
10. What Is the Recovery Time After Hernia Surgery?
Recovery involves staged progression with a focus on gradual activity resumption, wound care, and listening to one’s body to avoid setbacks. Recovery time following hernia surgery generally spans about six weeks, but the timeline varies based on factors such as the type of hernia, your age, and your overall health.
Many patients who undergo minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic surgery can expect to be discharged the same day. Initial recovery involves managing pain, swelling, and incision care, with gentle movement and walking encouraged within days to promote circulation and healing.
In the first week, pain and discomfort are expected, with most patients able to perform light activities at home. By the second week, pain typically decreases, and patients with sedentary jobs often return to work, avoiding heavy lifting.
Between weeks three and four, energy improves, and light exercise can resume. By six weeks, most patients can resume normal activities, including strenuous exercise and full work duties. Post-surgery, you should watch for signs of infection or hernia recurrence and follow your surgeon’s advice.
11. Do Hernias Occur More Commonly in Men or Women?
Hernias occur significantly more often in men than in women, with a lifetime risk of developing a groin hernia being higher for men than for women. This large difference primarily stems from anatomical and physiological factors.
Men have a natural weakness in the abdominal wall where the spermatic cord passes through the inguinal canal. This makes it more prone to hernias. In women, this canal is smaller and less exposed.
Additionally, men’s higher risk is influenced by lifestyle factors such as increased rates of heavy physical labor or smoking. This also includes conditions that raise abdominal pressure, like chronic cough or constipation.
Women tend to develop different hernia types more often, such as femoral hernias. They also experience hernias after pregnancy or abdominal surgeries like cesarean sections due to hormonal changes and abdominal wall stress. Women’s hernias are often more difficult to diagnose because symptoms can be subtle and mimic other conditions, leading to delays in treatment.
Choose Evansville Surgical Associates for Your Hernia Treatment
Choosing Evansville Surgical Associates for hernia treatment ensures expert care from board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons dedicated to the latest surgical advancements. Our team specializes in treating various hernia types, including inguinal, umbilical, and hiatal hernias, offering personalized treatment tailored to the hernia’s type and severity.
We utilize minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic techniques when appropriate, promoting quicker recovery, less pain, and smaller scars. When open surgery is necessary, our experienced surgeons provide reliable repairs with a focus on patient safety and long-term success.
Evansville Surgical Associates emphasizes thorough pre-operative assessments and clear communication about the best surgical approach. We prioritize comprehensive aftercare, pain management, and long-term follow-ups to ensure smooth recovery and address any complications early.
Our commitment to using advanced surgical methods combined with personalized care makes us your trusted choice for hernia repair in Evansville and the tri-state area.
Our surgeons are here to help with your hernia treatment. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
Hernias are caused by pressure inside the body forcing tissue or organs up through a pre-existing opening, weakened muscle tissue, or weakened connective tissue. There are three main types: inguinal, umbilical, and hiatal. The most common symptom is a bulge under the skin, although other symptoms can vary depending on the type of hernia.
Small hernias can be monitored for changes, with surgery being the ideal treatment. Hernia trusses can be helpful, but they’re no substitute for surgery. Problematic surgical mesh has been removed from the market, but you should still discuss using it with your surgeon. Complications with your hernia can occur if it isn’t treated correctly.
Evansville Surgical Associates has been providing comprehensive and compassionate surgical care for over 50 years. Call us at (812) 424-8231 or (800) 264-8231. We are available from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm if you would like to schedule an appointment.
