Hernias are a relatively common problem, but because they often begin with minor symptoms like an occasional mild ache or twinge, many people wind up ignoring them, hoping they’ll eventually go away. Unfortunately, hernias don’t heal on their own — and often they get much worse.
Hernia surgery is designed to repair hernia damage, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications — but how do you know when it’s time? In this post, Michael H. Tarlowe, MD, reviews the basics of hernias to help you understand why they happen and when surgery is appropriate.
Hernias happen when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak area in a muscular wall or through other connective tissue. Many hernias happen in the groin or belly area, but they can develop in other areas, too. For instance, a hiatal hernia happens when tissue pushes through your diaphragm, the muscle that manages breathing.
Lots of factors can cause or contribute to hernia development, including:
Regardless of what causes a hernia, the underlying weakness allows tissue to push through into an area where it shouldn’t be, often producing a telltale bulge that can usually be felt even if it can’t be seen.
Hernias typically cause symptoms such as aching or outright pain, particularly when the area is strained. Being very active, lifting heavy objects, exercising, coughing, vomiting, and even standing for long periods can make your symptoms feel worse. Hiatal hernias often cause chronic indigestion and feelings of nausea.
No type of hernia goes away on its own. Medical evaluation is essential for determining the size and severity of your hernia, even when your symptoms are mild. During your evaluation, Dr. Tarlowe determines if it’s OK to monitor your hernia closely or if it needs immediate surgical intervention to prevent more serious or even life-threatening problems, like tissue strangulation and necrosis.
While your evaluation certainly plays a central role in deciding when it’s time for surgery, there are some indicators you can watch out for, too. For instance, if your hernia is causing significant pain or if your pain is worsening, that’s a good sign that it’s time to schedule surgical repair. The same is true if your symptoms begin to interfere with daily activities, like working, climbing stairs, or even walking.
If your hernia bulge is getting larger, firmer, or feels more tender than usual, that’s another sign to look for. As pressure on the weak spot progresses, the opening in the muscle wall may enlarge, allowing more tissue to push through and increasing both your symptoms and the risk of complications.
Digestive symptoms are another important clue. Nausea, vomiting, constipation, or abdominal bloating can all be signs of hernia entrapment or incarceration, a serious problem that requires emergency medical treatment.
Bottom line: While some mild hernias may be monitored for a period of time, most eventually require surgery to repair the weak spot and return bulging tissue to its proper position.
To find out if you have a hernia or to have your hernia symptoms evaluated so you can stay healthy and prevent complications, call 954-210-7127 or request an appointment online with Dr. Tarlowe in Deerfield Beach, Florida, today.
