Premier Surgical Hernia Center

Hernia: Signs & Symptoms

Hernias are an all too common condition. More than 1 million hernia repair procedures are performed every year in the United States. However, a successful surgery means a patient can get back to their normal day-to-day life, without the discomfort a hernia can cause.

What Is A Hernia?

A hernia occurs as a result of a weakness in the abdominal muscles, or due to a hole in the abdominal wall. This can lead to tissue or organs protruding through it, which can cause the common symptoms of a hernia. Types of abdominal hernias include inguinal, hiatal, incisional, umbilical or femoral. Inguinal hernias are more common in men, while women are more prone to femoral or umbilical hernias.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Hernia?

Sometimes a hernia won’t show any outward signs and they’re only detected during a routine medical examination. The symptoms will vary but a common sign is a bulge or protrusion under the skin. Other symptoms may include a burning pain in the groin in the case of an inguinal hernia or a feeling of weakness and pressure.

Depending on where a hernia is putting pressure, a patient might experience back ache, stomach ache or nausea. Sudden movements like sneezing or coughing can become painful too. If a hernia is in the groin area, this may be experienced as a burning pain in the location of a hernia. If you experience nausea, a change in your bowel habits, or the pain becomes more severe, seek urgent medical help as this could be a symptom of a strangulated hernia.

Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery isn’t always recommended if a hernia isn’t causing any major problems, but patients might be urged to make some lifestyle changes. This could include losing weight, giving up smoking and changing your diet. However, if it is causing symptoms, there are surgical options available.

At Premier Surgical Hernia Center in Knoxville, our board certified General Surgeons offer laparoscopic surgery to repair the abdominal wall. This form of surgery is preferred where possible as it is less invasive and the recovery time is shorter. If needed, an open hernia repair is also an option. In more severe cases, a complex hernia repair might be necessary.

With expert help, a hernia doesn’t need to affect the quality of your life. When lifestyle changes won’t suffice or if a hernia is causing discomfort, surgery could be the best option. Request a consultation with one of  Premier Surgical’s experienced physicians to learn about your options for hernia treatment.

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