Hernia

Overview

A hernia happens when some of your internal organs protrude through a hole or weaken in the muscle or tissue that houses them. Most hernias involve one of your abdominal organs pressing through one of your abdominal cavity’s walls. Hernias can develop gradually as you age, and the daily wear and stress on your muscles add up. An injury, surgery, or a birth defect can also cause them.

Causes

All hernias are created by a combination of pressure and a weakening or opening in the muscle or fascia. The reason you get a hernia is because the pressure pushes an organ or tissue through the aperture or weak place. Muscle weakness can occur at birth in some cases. However, it is more common later in life.

An increase in abdominal pressure can lead to a hernia, some of the causes of hernia are: 

• Lifting large objects without using abdominal muscles to stabilize them
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Coughing or sneezing regularly
• Obesity, poor nutrition, and smoking can also weaken muscles and increase the likelihood of hernias

Symptoms

The hernia symptoms include: 

• Pubic bone bulge on any side of the bone  becomes more visible when you’re upright, especially if you cough or strain
• A burning or hurting sensation near the bulge
• While bending over, coughing, or lifting
• You will feel pain or discomfort in your groin
• Groin or dragging sensation can lead to hernia
• Pressure or weakness in your groin

 When you feel pain or swelling around your testicle, it will project the intestine lowers into the scrotum.

Diagnosis

A physical exam is typically sufficient to detect an inguinal hernia. Your doctor will examine a groin bulge. Because standing and coughing can accentuate a hernia, you will most likely be asked to stand and cough or strain.

If the hernia diagnosis is not apparent, your doctor may advise you for an imaging test, such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.

Treatment

If your hernia is tiny and not troubling you, your doctor may advise you to wait. Wearing a supportive truss may help reduce discomfort in some cases, but consult your doctor first because the truss must fit properly and be utilized correctly. Before considering surgery on youngsters, the doctor may use manual pressure to minimize the bulge.

Enlarging or painful hernias typically necessitate surgery to ease pain and prevent serious complications.

Hernia treatment also can be surgeries classified into open hernia surgery and minimally invasive hernia repair.

When To See A Doctor

If a hernia bulge turns into different colors, such as red, purple, or dark, or if you detect any other signs or symptoms of a strangulated hernia, seek emergency medical attention.

If you have a painful or noticeable bulge in your groin on either side of your pubic bone, see your doctor. When you stand, the bulge is more visible, and you can typically feel it if you put your hand right over the affected area.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about Hernia or any other medical condition, please see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment suggestions.