Neglecting hernia can be dangerous: Know the complications

A hernia is a tear in the muscle or tissue that causes some parts of your insides to bulge out. It is an abnormal protrusion of the abdominal viscus, which is a part of an organ or whole of an organ or fat through an abnormal opening in the wall of the cavity which contains it

The hernia can also happen depending on its location and size. It is seen in a large number of men and women. However, the condition is still a mystery to many people.

Ignoring hernia can lead to problems

A hernia is a common occurrence and needs timely intervention. Ignoring this condition is a strict no as doing so can lead to serious complications in the future. You will be shocked to know that if left untreated, the hernia can even get strangulated. So, be attentive when it comes to your health. Don’t forget to report any unusual signs and symptoms to the doctor. It will be essential for you to take charge of your health and stay hearty.

Types of hernia

Various types of hernia can strike you at any point in time. One can suffer from inguinal (groin) hernia, femoral hernia, umbilical hernia, and hiatal hernia. A surgeon can diagnose this easily considering the symptoms.

• Inguinal hernia and femoral hernia happen when the viscus pokes into the groin at the top of your inner thigh.
• Umbilical hernias are seen after the viscus pokes via one’s tummy near the belly button.
• Hiatus hernia is a common occurrence when the part of the stomach pushes up into the chest by squeezing through an opening in the diaphragm, (that separates the chest from the tummy.
• An incisional hernia occurs when the tissue protrudes via the site of an abdominal scar due to a remote abdominal or pelvic operation.
• Spigelian hernia is seen when the viscus pushes through the abdomen at the side of the abdominal muscle.

Also Read: Pregnant women are at a higher risk of hernia

Causes of hernia

The common causes behind hernia can be attributed to the following:

• Age
• Pregnancy
• Abdominal damage due to injury
• Family history
• Constipation
• Lifting heavy weights, and
• Sudden weight gain.

Symptoms of hernia you shouldn’t ignore!

The red flags of hernia include:

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• Swelling or bulge in the groin or scrotum
• Pain while lifting heavy weight
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Indigestion
• Signs of bowel obstruction

How is a hernia diagnosed?

Your doctor will conduct a physical examination to see if you have been experiencing symptoms of a hernia or some other condition. Ultrasonography and CT scan also help in diagnosis.

Complications of hernia

Neglecting a hernia can lead to various complications. Hernia can be painful if not managed or treated at the right time. It can cause blockage, hernia incarceration, or hernia strangulation, which can lead to Sepsis and even death.

Intestinal blockage can be seen due to untreated hernia and will give you a tough time. It will happen when the herniated bowel is blocked, and the body is unable to pass waste. Then, the hernia will be incarcerated or trapped, which can lead to strangulation due to blood flow being cut off from the protruding tissue leading to tissue death. Thus, one will have to opt for surgery without any delay.

Takeaway

Currently, a lot of surgical options are available for hernia treatment. But, once the diagnosis of hernia is confirmed, your doctor will suggest an appropriate surgery based on the symptoms and type of hernia.