Hernias are a common condition for both men and women, although men are more likely to have them. Just because something is common, however, does not mean it is benign. Some hernias may require surgery to stop them from becoming an emergent situation, while others can be watched over time for growth. So, when do you know it is time to seek treatment for your hernia? 

Although there are many types of hernias, they all share one thing in common: tissue or an organ pushes into or through a wall of muscle, creating a bulge. This is caused by a combination of pressure and an opening or weakness in the fascia or muscle. Pressure can come from heavy lifting, pregnancy, constipation, diarrhea, persistent coughing or even surgery. Some types of hernias are congenital, or present at birth.  

The most common type is an inguinal hernia, which is located in the lower belly and happens when part of the abdominal wall is compromised, allowing the intestines to push through. People with this type of hernia will usually notice a lump that may be able to be pushed back in and doctors are likely to use the “wait and watch” approach instead of opting for surgical repair right away. 

Femoral hernias, however, are a bit trickier and may require treatment as they are more likely to get stuck. These are more common in older women and the tissue creates a bulge that is located in the pelvic region, near the crease of the groin. Women are also more likely to have umbilical hernias, when tissue bulges from the area around the belly button. These can be caused by or worsen with pregnancy, weight gain or long bouts of constipation.  

Other types of hernias include: 

Most people with hernias experience symptoms such as a visible lump (which may be tender), abdominal discomfort or swelling, heartburn, constipation and weakness in the abdomen or groin. When symptoms interfere with your daily functioning or become more persistent or worsen, your provider will most likely talk to you about surgical repair. This is a common treatment for hernias and many surgeons perform laproscopic repair, using several tiny cuts that leaving minimal scarring and the added bonus of a quicker recovery. Open repair, when a surgeon creates an incision, is also common. 

Some hernias may become stuck, and tissue will not go back through the abdominal opening. This can create an emergency medical situation and will most likely require emergency surgery to save the tissue. Symptoms that you require immediate medical attention include: nausea, vomiting, fever, sudden pain that worsens quickly, a hernia bulge that turns red, purple or dark in color and not being able to poop or pass gas. In this case, you would want to head to your nearest emergency room.  

If you suspect you have a hernia or would like to consider surgical repair, schedule an appointment to speak with your Hancock Health provider!