Is there swelling in the groin or abdomen? Do you suffer from constipation or even back pain? Then watch out! It could be a hernia. Here, Dr. Ra Jan Mod i, minimal access surgeon and laparoscopy surgeon, House of Doctors, tells all about the symptoms, causes and preventive measures to deal with it. Read on to know more about it and remember to follow the basic tips.
A hernia can be called as a gap between the fascia of the abdominal wall and the muscles through which the internal contents of the body, such as the small and large intestine, stomach, bladder, protrude into the skin. Many hernias are seen in the abdomen between the chest and hips. However, they can also occur in the groin area and on the upper part of the thigh. A hernia is not a life-threatening entity.
The causes of a hernia can be attributed to pressure and opening or weakness of a muscle or fascia. You will be shocked to find that pressure pushes an organ or tissue through an opening or weak spot. Muscle weakness may be present at birth or appear later in life. Symptoms of a hernia: If you experience symptoms such as swelling in the groin or abdominal wall due to prolonged standing, coughing or sneezing, you must consult a doctor immediately, or even a good laugh! Pain, swelling, pulling sensation in the abdomen, constipation and poor posture causing back pain.
Know when it might be a hernia
What can you feel?
Weakness, dull pain, heaviness or burning sensation in the abdomen, groin and scrotum. It can get worse if you strain your abdominal muscles when coughing, lifting heavy objects, playing sports, having a bowel movement, or standing for long periods of time. However, he may feel better with rest.
What can you see?
A soft lump in the scrotum or groin that you can push back with gentle force, or the same soft lump gets smaller or disappears after you lie down. The bulge can also get bigger when you cough, bend, lift, or exert yourself during the day.
What can you notice?
A feeling that something has been torn or a sudden sharp pain in the groin area. Therefore, even if you have not experienced any other symptoms, you must see your doctor immediately.
Diagnosis and surgery: Your doctor will ask you to opt for an abdominal ultrasound, CT or MRI to help with the diagnosis.
Therapy
Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery: In the following, a camera called a "laparoscope" is inserted into the abdomen to visualize the hernia and make a precise incision in the lower abdomen. It is usually performed under general anesthesia.
Open surgery for hernia repair: When an incision is made in the groin, it is considered an open hernia repair. Here, the bulging bowel lodged in the hernia is identified by the surgeon to push it back into the abdomen. Later, synthetic mesh or sutures are used to restore the abdominal wall.
Robotic Hernia Repair Surgery: This is the most advanced procedure as it involves three-dimensional images of the inner abdomen, ensuring tiny scars and less pain.
TAR surgery for recurrent and complex hernia repair: It is the only procedure that treats complex ventral hernias from the root. In TAR surgery, a long incision is made in the midline of the pubis to open the hernia and release its sides. Next, the retro-rectus plane develops, and the rectus muscle rises anteriorly in closure.
Tips to prevent hernias
In case of persistent cough, contact a doctor. Prevent constipation by eating foods rich in fiber. Do not strain during bowel movements. Strengthen your abdominal muscles with exercise, avoid weight lifting or smoking.
You must be logged in to post a comment.