Do you feel a small bulge in your stomach or groin? Does it hurt when you cough, lift a heavy gas cylinder, or strain in the toilet? You might feel a dull ache that gets worse as the day goes on.
If this sounds like you, this article can help. We will explain what a hernia is in simple, clear terms. This guide is for anyone who thinks they might have a hernia and wants to understand more about it.
What Exactly Is a Hernia?
Think of your body’s muscle wall like a strong cloth bag. This bag holds your organs, like your intestines, in place. A hernia happens when there is a weak spot or a tear in that bag. A part of an organ or tissue then pushes through this weak spot. This creates a lump or bulge under your skin. It usually does not go away on its own and may get bigger over time.
Common Types of Hernias in India
Hernias can appear in several parts of the body. The most common type is an inguinal hernia, which shows as a bulge in the groin area and is more frequent in men. Another kind is an umbilical hernia, which forms a bulge near the belly button, or naabhi, and is often seen in newborns and women after pregnancy. Some hernias happen inside the body, like a hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach pushes into the chest, causing bad heartburn or “gas.” Lastly, if you have had stomach surgery, an incisional hernia can form at the old scar where the muscle is weaker.
What Causes a Hernia?
Several things in our daily lives can put pressure on the stomach muscles and cause a hernia. This includes lifting heavy objects like a water bucket or weights at the gym. A long-lasting cough from smoking or illness also puts great strain on the stomach. Straining during toilet use due to constipation is another major cause. Other factors like being overweight or pregnancy can also stretch and weaken the abdominal muscles, leading to a hernia.
When to See a Doctor
If you see or feel a bulge, you should visit a doctor. Most hernias are not life-threatening, and a doctor can check it with a simple physical exam. However, you should go to a hospital right away if the hernia causes sudden, sharp pain, if the bulge feels firm and you cannot push it back in, or if the area turns red or dark. These are emergency signs that need quick medical care, especially if you also feel sick or start vomiting.
How Are Hernias Fixed?
A hernia will not heal by itself, and the main treatment is surgery. Your doctor will discuss the best option for you. One common method is open surgery, where a surgeon makes a single cut over the hernia to repair the muscle wall, often using a synthetic mesh (like a jaali) for support. Another option is laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery. Here, the surgeon uses a camera and small tools through tiny cuts to fix the hernia. This often leads to less pain and a faster return to normal activities like walking or light yoga.
Key Takeaways
A hernia is a bulge that appears when an organ pushes through a weak muscle wall. It will not go away on its own and can get larger. If you think you have a hernia, it is important to see a doctor for a proper check. Surgery is the only effective way to repair a hernia and prevent serious problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I cure my hernia with yoga or home remedies?
A: No. While gentle yoga may help with overall fitness, it cannot cure a hernia. Home remedies also cannot fix the torn muscle. Surgery is the only solution to repair the weak spot.
Q: Is hernia surgery very painful?
A: You will have some discomfort after the surgery, but your doctor will give you medicine to manage the pain. Keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery usually involves less pain and a quicker recovery than open surgery.
Q: What can I eat after hernia surgery?
A: Your doctor will give you specific advice. Generally, you should eat a diet rich in fibre, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This prevents constipation, so you do not have to strain when using the toilet.