Understanding Hernias: Types, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Hernias are more common than many people might think, and can affect both men and women, even children. They develop when a portion of an internal organ or tissue bulges through a weak area in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue — commonly in the abdominal wall. Some hernias are not painful in the early stages, some are painful and may have complications if left untreated. The good news is that hernia repair surgery is very successful and accessible at NHS surgeons in the UK.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue slips through a weak spot in a muscle or fascia (connective tissue). They are most commonly found in the abdomen, but they can appear elsewhere in the body.
Typical symptoms are a lump in the groin, discomfort (especially when coughing, bending, or lifting), and occasionally pain. Though not all hernias need to be immediately operated on, it is important to keep an eye on them as they can grow and cause further issues.
Hernias may be present at birth (congenital) or may develop later in life, and can be caused by any condition that produces increased pressure inside the abdomen, such as lifting heavy objects, and by age-related muscle weakness or injury, such as from an abdominal surgery. Hernias may also be caused by factors including chronic coughing, obesity, or heavy lifting.
Types of Hernias
Hernias come in various forms, each with unique characteristics and treatment needs. The most common types include:
- Inguinal hernia: If it appears in the groin, it is one of the most common types of hernia, especially in men. It occurs when a section of the intestine slips through a weakened area in the abdominal muscle, near the inguinal canal.
- Umbilical hernia: This type of hernia appears near the belly button and is more common in infants but can happen in adults too.
- Incisional hernia: Occurs at the place of a postoperative scar. The muscles may not heal right, leaving a weak spot where tissue can protrude.
- Hiatal hernia: A portion of the upper stomach protrudes through the diaphragm and up into the chest cavity, often causing symptoms such as heartburn or acid reflux.
- Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A rare, life-threatening birth defect occurs when the abdominal organs move into the chest, which affects the development of the lungs in a newborn.
Management of each type of hernia is different, and accurate diagnosis is necessary for selecting the appropriate treatment.
What Causes a Hernia?
A hernia is generally caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. This weakness may be congenital (present from birth) or it could be acquired. Some of the contributing factors for a hernia include strain from heavy lifting, long-term coughing, obesity, pregnancy, or long-term constipation.
While anyone can get a hernia, people who do a lot of manual labour or are overweight, or who have a history of the condition in their family are more prone. More crucially, some people are born with thinner or weaker abdominal walls, increasing their vulnerability.
When is Treatment Necessary?
Some small hernias cause no symptoms and may not require immediate surgery. However, if a hernia causes discomfort, pain, or begins to enlarge, treatment becomes necessary. Left untreated, a hernia may lead to complications such as obstruction or strangulation—where the blood supply to part of the intestine is cut off—both of which are medical emergencies.
Therefore, early consultation with a specialist can prevent complications and offer peace of mind.
How Are Hernias Treated?
Surgery for a hernia is the most common and effective treatment. This requires closing the hole in the muscle wall and strengthening the area, typically using surgical mesh. Hernia repairs are done in two general methods:
- Open surgery: A single large incision is made near the hernia to push the tissue back in and strengthen the wall.
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery: Small incisions and a camera are used to repair, with a generally faster recovery and less post-operative pain.
Your specialist will advise you on the type that is most suitable for you given the location and size of your hernia and your general health.
Recovery After Hernia Surgery
Recovery is surgical technique and person dependent. Most go back to their normal activities in a few weeks, although they should stay away from strenuous exercise and lifting heavy objects in the beginning.
What are the typical things a patient is told to do?
- Use pain medicine as directed.
- Do not become constipated (too much straining might stress the repair).
- Gradual, cautious resumption of activity is recommended.
- Most people are expected to make a full recovery and surgical results are good.
When to See a Doctor
If you spot a lump in your abdomen or groin — and especially if it grows in size when you stand or cough — or if you have abdominal pain, nausea or a change in your bowel habits, it’s time to see a healthcare professional. Early detection to avoid complications and to have timely treatment.
Conclusion
Hernias are a frequent problem and tend to be treatable when diagnosed early. Whether you are coping with a little, painless bulge or experiencing a more serious condition which is affecting your quality of life, a professional diagnosis and treatment can help you to be healthy and prevent other issues from arising.
For more information on any of these services or to talk about your symptoms, call Chase Lodge Hospital to book an appointment. For more extensive detail, take a look at the NHS guide to hernias.
