What Is A Hernia?
A hernia is a defect or weakness in the abdominal wall which usually allows the contents of the abdomen to bulge out. This bulge may become more noticeable when you are standing or performing some type of exertional maneuver such as coughing, sneezing, straining and lifting.
The natural course of a hernia is for it to enlarge over time. The most common hernias develop in the inguinal or groin area, but may occur anywhere else on the abdomen or flank areas. Some types of hernias are present since birth and others develop in adulthood slowly over.
Hernia Symptoms
If you a hernia, you may experience any of the following symptoms:
- A bulge or protrusion in the groin, flank, or abdominal wall
- Pain, discomfort or a dull ache at the site of the protrusion
- Pain while lifting, straining or coughing
Do I Need Surgery For A Hernia?
As mentioned, the natural course of hernias is to slowly enlarge and worsen over time. A truss or binder is sometimes prescribed by doctors for hernias. This may alleviate some of your symptoms, but it does not provide you with definitive treatment.
We recommend that the majority of people with hernias have have surgery to repair them, even if they do not have symptoms. This is because hernias have the potential for strangulation, a serious problem that occurs when part of your intestine gets trapped inside the hernia. If strangulation occurs, you'll need emergency surgery to prevent life-threatening complications, such as gangrene.
The only way to “fix” a hernia is by surgery. Once your hernia surgery is performed you will no longer have to wear a truss and may resume normal activities.
Learn more about Hernia Surgery at UCSD Hernia Center.