A hernia is when an organ or tissue bulges out through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue that holds it in place . Not all hernias require immediate surgery, but there are warning signs that it is getting worse and may need surgery soon. Early identification of these signs can prevent life threatening complications and lead to a smoother recovery.
What Is A Hernia And How Does It Get Worsen?
Hernias don’t get better on their own. Over time, the opening in the muscle wall can grow larger, allowing more tissue to bulge through. The longer you have the hernia, the more likely you are to develop serious complications such as strangulation (loss of blood supply to the trapped tissue). It is a medical emergency and needs immediate surgery for hernia surgery in Chennai or where ever the patient may be.
Red Flags to Look Out For
Often, a hernia will first appear as a bulge, typically in the groin, abdomen or belly button area, which may become more apparent when you cough, strain or stand up. In many instances this bulge can be gently pushed back in. But if it is hard and tender and cannot be reduced, that is a serious warning sign.
Pain or discomfort in the region of the bulge, especially when bending, lifting or coughing, is another sign that the hernia may be growing or pressing on surrounding structures. Another common complaint of patients who will eventually require Hernia Surgery in Chennai is a dull ache. This ache gets worse as the day wears on, especially after standing for long periods.
When to Get Emergency Care
Certain symptoms suggest that the hernia has become strangulated and needs urgent medical attention. They are:
Sudden and severe pain at the site of the hernia that does not go away. Nausea & vomiting. Redness or discoloration around the bump.Unable to pass gas or have a bowel movement. Fever and tenderness of abdomen.
These things are a question of time. Delay in treatment of strangulated hernia may lead to necrosis of bowel, sepsis and serious deterioration of health. Chennai has surgical centres that are capable of handling emergency Hernia Surgery in Chennai and are well equipped to manage such cases promptly.
Types of Hernia More Likely to Require Surgery
Hernias are different. In most cases surgery is the treatment of choice, because the most common type of hernia is an inguinal hernia (in the groin) and these are associated with a higher risk of incarceration. Femoral hernias (more common in women) are more likely to strangulate, and generally require prompt surgical repair. Surgical treatment is also often indicated for large or symptomatic incisional and umbilical hernias.
Even if your hernia is small and isn’t causing any symptoms now, your surgeon may recommend repair to prevent future problems, especially if you’re active or have risk factors such as obesity or chronic cough.
Surgical Indications: Risk Factors
Some lifestyle and health factors can accelerate the progression of a hernia. These are heavy lifting, chronic constipation, persistent coughing, pregnancy and obesity. If you have any of these risk factors in addition to a known hernia, it is appropriate to have an early consultation with a surgical specialist.
Your surgeon will look at the size, type and symptoms of your hernia to decide the best way to treat it – either by watching and waiting, repairing it electively or fixing it urgently.
“Neglecting hernia symptoms can lead to complications that are much more serious – and much harder to fix – than the original problem. If you see a bulge that doesn’t go away, or you start to feel increasing discomfort or any of the emergency warning signs listed above, get medical attention immediately.
GEM Hospital provides specialist surgical care from an experienced team of general and laparoscopic surgeons. whether your hernia needs an elective repair or urgent attention, their patient first approach means you get the right treatment at the right time. Contact us today to arrange a consultation and begin your journey to long term relief .