What is Hernia?

A hernia is characterized by the abnormal protrusion of an organ or tissue, such as the intestine or omentum, through the weakened or torn wall of its normal cavity. This occurs when the layers of the abdominal wall weaken, leading to bulging or tearing and allowing a loop of abdominal tissue or intestine to slip into a sac, resulting in potential severe pain and other serious health complications.
Hernias can be asymptomatic or cause varying degrees of pain. They occur when an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue. Common types of hernias include inguinal hernias (more common in men), femoral hernias (mainly affecting older women), umbilical hernias, and hiatal hernias. Prompt treatment is crucial for individuals diagnosed with a hernia.

Hernia Treatment in Hadapsar

The most common forms of hernia are:

  1. Inguinal Hernia: This occurs when fatty tissue or a part of the intestine protrudes into the groin at the top of the inner thigh. It is more common in men.
  2. Femoral Hernia: Involves fatty tissue or a portion of the intestine protruding into the groin at the top of the inner thigh, predominantly affecting older women.
  3. Umbilical Hernia: Characterized by fatty tissue or a part of the intestine pushing through the abdominal wall near the navel (belly button).
  4. Hiatal (Hiatus) Hernia: Part of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity through an opening in the diaphragm, the horizontal muscle separating the chest from the abdomen.

Other types of hernias include incisional hernia, epigastric hernia, spigelian hernia, and diaphragmatic hernia.

How common are hernias?

Of all hernias that occur:

  • 75 to 80% are inguinal or femoral.
  • 2% are incisional or ventral.
  • 3 to 10% are umbilical, affecting 10 to 20% of newborns; most close by themselves by 5 years of age.
  • 1 to 3% are other types.

What are the symptoms of a hernia?

Symptoms of a hernia include a noticeable lump or bulge in the abdomen or groin that may be pushed back in or disappear when lying down. Activities such as laughing, crying, coughing, straining during bowel movements, or physical exertion may cause the lump to reappear. Additional symptoms may include swelling, increased pain at the bulge site, pain during lifting, an increase in bulge size over time, a dull aching sensation, and a feeling of fullness or signs of bowel obstruction.

For hiatal hernias, symptoms may include heartburn, indigestion, difficulty swallowing, frequent regurgitation, and chest pain.

To prevent and treat complications, healthcare providers often recommend measures such as taking folic acid, obtaining necessary vaccines, maintaining a healthy weight through a nutritious diet and regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco, alcohol, and narcotics. Regular visits to a healthcare provider are also emphasized for overall health monitoring.

Dr. Aniket Zarkar is a seasoned general and laparoscopic surgeon in Pune, with 11 years of experience. Renowned as an expert laser pile surgeon, he specializes in laser surgeries and is proficient in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, including gallbladder issues, piles, fissures, fistulas, and circumcisions. He also offers advanced hernia treatment in Hadapsar, ensuring comprehensive care for his patients.