What Is a Hernia?

Hernias occur when part of an organ pushes through a gap or weak area in the muscle or tissue that usually holds it in place. Think of it like a tear in a balloon where the inner layer pokes through. Hernias can be present from birth or develop over time. Age, physical strain, pregnancy, and previous surgeries can all increase your risk of developing one. The most common areas where hernias develop include:

• The groin (inguinal hernias)
• The belly button (umbilical hernias)
• Previous surgical sites (incisional hernias)
• The upper stomach (hiatal hernias)

Recognising Hernia Symptoms

Hernia symptoms vary depending on the type and location. Many people live with hernias without realising they have one. Others experience pain or discomfort that affects their daily activities. The key is knowing when to seek help. Among the common signs to watch for are:

• Visible Bulge – You may notice a lump or swelling that appears when you stand, cough, or strain. The bulge might disappear when you lie down.
• Pain or Discomfort – This can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain. The discomfort often worsens with activity or when lifting heavy objects.
• Burning Sensation – Some people feel a burning or aching sensation around the hernia site.
• Feeling of Heaviness – The affected area might feel heavy or full, especially after eating or during physical activity.
• Difficulty With Bowel Movements – In some cases, hernias can affect the digestive system.

We Can Diagnose Your Hernia and Propose Treatment Options

Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step towards effective treatment. During your consultation, our specialists will discuss your symptoms and medical history. We’ll then perform a physical examination to assess the hernia. We may also recommend additional tests, such as:

• Ultrasounds to get a clearer picture of the hernia
• CT scans for complex cases
• MRI scans, if other tests are inconclusive

Once we’ve confirmed your diagnosis, we’ll explain your treatment options. Our team takes the time to answer all your questions and ensure you understand the benefits and risks of each approach.

The Importance of Treating Hernias Promptly

While not all hernias require immediate surgery, it’s important to address them promptly. Untreated hernias can lead to:

• Strangulation is the most serious complication. This happens when the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off. Without prompt treatment, the tissue can die, leading to life-threatening infections.
• Obstruction can occur when part of the bowel becomes trapped in the hernia. This can cause severe pain, vomiting, and problems with bowel movements.

Even if complications don’t develop, hernias typically get larger over time. What starts as a small, manageable problem can become more complex and harder to treat.

Common Hernia Treatments

The type of treatment you need depends on several factors, including the size and location of your hernia, your symptoms, and your overall health.

Inguinal Hernia Repair

Inguinal hernia repair is the most common type of hernia surgery. These hernias occur in the groin area and are more frequent in men than women. Doctors can do the repair through open surgery or using keyhole techniques. During the procedure, the surgeon pushes the protruding tissue back into place and strengthens the muscle wall. Often, a special mesh is used to provide extra support and reduce the risk of the hernia returning.

Recovery typically takes a few weeks, and most people can return to normal activities within a month.

Umbilical Hernia Repair

Umbilical hernia repair addresses hernias that occur around the belly button. These are common in babies but can also affect adults, particularly women who have had multiple pregnancies.

Small umbilical hernias in children often heal on their own. However, adult umbilical hernias usually require surgical repair. The procedure involves closing the gap in the muscle wall and may include placing mesh for additional strength.

Most people will recover well from umbilical hernia repair and can resume normal activities within two to four weeks, though results may vary.

Incisional Hernia Repair

Incisional hernia repair treats hernias that develop at the site of previous surgical cuts. These can be challenging to repair because the tissue may already be weakened from the previous surgery.

The repair technique depends on the size and complexity of the hernia. Larger hernias often require mesh reinforcement to provide adequate support. In some cases, plastic surgery techniques may be needed to achieve the best results.

Recovery from incisional hernia repair can take longer than other types, especially for larger hernias.

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic hernia repair uses keyhole surgery techniques to fix hernias with minimal cuts. This approach offers several advantages over traditional open surgery. Benefits include smaller scars, less pain after surgery, faster recovery, and a lower risk of infection.

During laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon makes small cuts and uses a tiny camera to guide the repair. A mesh is placed inside the abdomen to strengthen the muscle wall.

Not all hernias are suitable for laparoscopic repair, but it can provide excellent results and faster healing when appropriate.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery varies depending on the type of repair and your circumstances. However, these general guidelines apply to most hernia repairs:

• First Week – You’ll need to rest and avoid heavy lifting. Light activities like walking are encouraged as they help prevent complications.
• Weeks Two to Four – Gradually increase your activity level. Most people can return to desk jobs during this period.
• Weeks Four to Six – Most people can resume more strenuous activities and exercise, but follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations.
• Follow-Up Appointments – These are important to check your healing progress and address any concerns.

Pain and swelling are normal after surgery but should gradually improve. Let your surgeon know if you experience increasing pain, fever, or signs of infection.