Hernia Awareness Month- What is a hernia?

June is Hernia Awareness Month. While many people may have heard the term hernia, there are still questions regarding what a hernia is and how it can be treated. Touro Family Medicine Physician, Dr. Meredith Maxwell, is here to explain the different types of hernias and when you should seek medical care.

What Is a Hernia?

A hernia is when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak area in the belly (abdominal) wall. This weak area may be there at birth. Or it may be caused by abdominal strain over time. If not treated, a hernia can get worse with time and physical stress.

What does a hernia look like?

When there is a weak area in the abdominal wall, an organ or tissue can push outward. This often causes a bulge that you can see under your skin. The bulge may get bigger when you stand up. It may go away when you lie down. You may also feel some pressure or mild pain when lifting, coughing, urinating, or doing other activities.

What are the types of hernias?

The type of hernia you have depends on where it's at. Most hernias form in the groin at or near the internal ring. This is the entrance to a canal between the abdomen and groin. Hernias can also occur in the abdomen, thigh, or genitals.

• An incisional hernia occurs at the site of a previous surgical cut (incision).
• An umbilical hernia occurs at the belly button (navel).
• An indirect inguinal hernia occurs in the groin at the internal ring.
• A direct inguinal hernia occurs in the groin near the internal ring.
• A femoral hernia occurs just below the groin.
• An epigastric hernia occurs in the upper abdomen at the midline.

Other types of hernias can occur. But they are rare.

How is a hernia diagnosed?

In most cases, your healthcare provider can diagnose a hernia by doing a physical exam.

In some cases, it might not be clear why you have swelling in the belly wall. Then your provider may order an imaging test such as an ultrasound. This can help with the diagnosis.

How are hernias treated?

A hernia will not heal on its own. Surgery is needed to fix the weak spot in the belly wall. If not treated, a hernia can get larger. It can also cause serious health problems. Some hernias can be watched. They can then be fixed if they grow bigger or start to cause symptoms. The good news is that hernia surgery can be done quickly and safely.

Most hernias are fixed with laparoscopic surgery. This type of surgery is done through several very small cuts. Other hernias may need open surgery. A larger cut is made in the belly. In some cases, you can go home the same day as your surgery.

When to call your provider?

Call or see your healthcare provider right away if the swelling around your hernia becomes larger, firmer, or more painful. These may be signs that your intestines are stuck in the belly wall. This is an emergency. The hernia must be fixed right away to prevent serious problems.

If you or someone you know needs a primary care provider, you can visit touro.com/findadoc or call 504-897-7777