A Hernia may feel like a bulge in the abdomen or groin area of a person when one coughs, lifts something heavy, or even simply laughs too hard. A hernia may seem like a small, seemingly insignificant event in the beginning, but left untreated, a hernia can create a lot of complications, and even death. Hernias can happen to anybody, and generally, they are an equal opportunity affliction to both males and females in every age group. The reason for the hernia can come from many different categories, including but not limited to: chronic cough, heavy lifting, constipation, pregnancy, and even genetic factors. Some hernias may be small and exist within a person’s body with little to no serious symptoms, and some may grow to be harmful and painful and contributing many other serious symptoms to the patient’s overall health. In this article, we will discuss in detail about hernia pain and the symptoms that might indicate causes of concern.
What is a hernia?
A Hernia occurs when an organ within the abdomen (or groin) escapes through an opening or weakness in the muscle or tissue that holds that organ in place. When this happens, a bulge is created, and we typically refer to that as a hernia. Hernias can happen to people as they age, as the muscle and tissue are naturally at their weakest. Besides aging, a hernia may also occur due to an injury, an operation, or even a birth defect. Most hernias will ultimately require a hernia surgery to repair them to reduce signs and symptoms. Some of the most common areas of the body for hernias to occur are the lower chest through the diaphragm, the groin through the lower abdominal wall, along the front midline of the abdomen, and through an abdominal incision if there was a previous operation.
When should a patient worry about hernia pain?
Here are some of the symptoms that patients might need to watch out for, as they can indicate a hernia getting complicated or strangulated:
- Sudden, Severe Pain: If a patient’s hernia pain becomes sharp, intense, or unbearable, it could be a sign that the herniated tissue is trapped or losing blood supply. This is an emergency situation and requires urgent medical attention.
- Nausea or Vomiting: It can mean that a part of the intestine is blocked or not receiving enough blood flow, specifically in the case of strangulated Hernia.
- Redness or Discoloration: If the swollen tissue or bulge shows signs of discoloration and other such symptoms, it might indicate that the hernia is losing blood supply or the tissue is getting damaged.
- Fever: Fever, along with hernia pain, is a concerning sign and could mean that the herniated area has caught an infection or inflammation.
- Constipation or Inability to Pass Gas: This is yet another symptom, the occurrence of which indicates an obstruction in the bowel movements and requires immediate medical intervention.
What are the available treatment options for hernias?
The majority of hernia cases will require surgery; however, the urgency of surgery can vary from patient to patient. In some cases, patients may have relatively small hernias that are not clinically significant, and where symptoms in the patient are not worsening, the patient may receive “watchful waiting”. Other patients who have larger hernias or other symptoms may be recommended for hernia repair surgery. In addition to traditional hernia repair surgery, the advancement of modern medicine and technology has developed advanced techniques such as Robotic Surgery for Hernia repair. Robotic Surgery for Hernia repair is a minimally invasive and very accurate way to treat these cases, including more complex hernia procedures as well, and an effective and permanent form of relief for patients with hernia symptoms.
If you are looking for the Best Doctors for Hernia Surgery, or the Best hospital for hernia surgery in Mohali, Sohana Hospital might just be the right option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the World’s Most Advanced Robotic Technology and North India’s most trusted and renowned Surgeons who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for all types of hernia with the most patient-focused approach. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a pain-free, comfortable life!