Many of us have come across the term Hernia. Hernias are a common medical condition affecting millions globally, occurring when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Normally, organs are held in place by muscles, but sometimes these muscles weaken or an organ protrude through, resulting in a hernia.
They can appear anywhere on the body but are more common in the area between the chest and hips. The type of hernia depends on the location of the defect, with inguinal, umbilical, femoral, and incisional hernias being the most common types. Dr Amita Jain, who is one of the best laparoscopic surgeons in Delhi and specialises in hernia repair surgery shares 5 signs to visit a specialist doctor for hernia treatment.
How does one find out if they need to consult a hernia repair specialist?
Persistent Pain – Persistent pain at the site of a hernia is a significant indicator that requires consultation with a hernia repair specialist. This pain, which can range from constant discomfort to recurring bouts of agony, often intensifies during physical exertion or when lifting heavy objects. It is not merely a fleeting sensation but rather a debilitating experience that can severely disrupt daily activities.
From impeding mobility to disturbing sleep and overall well-being, the relentless discomfort associated with hernias demands attention and proper management. Recognizing the severity and persistence of this pain is paramount in determining the necessity for hernia repair surgery.
Patients may describe the sensation as pressure at the site, with exacerbations during activities that strain the abdomen, such as weightlifting, running, or bowel movements. Severe pain should particularly raise alarms, prompting immediate consultation with a specialist for assessment and appropriate intervention.
Prominent Bulge – When you notice a protruding lump or bulge at the hernia site, particularly during activities that increase abdominal pressure like lifting or coughing, it could signal the need to consult a hernia repair specialist. This bulge may initially be small but can progressively increase in size, indicating a worsening hernia that may require surgical intervention.
The presence of swelling or bulging not only confirms the hernia but also suggests the potential for complications. Monitoring the size and characteristics of the bulge is crucial, as any change, especially if it starts to change color from red to purple or darker, could indicate a lack of blood flow to the herniated tissue, necessitating immediate medical attention. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to increased pain and discomfort, making timely intervention essential to prevent further complications.
Bowel Habits – Changes in bowel movements, ranging from constipation to difficulty passing stools, may indicate the presence of a hernia and potentially signal the need for hernia repair surgery. In severe cases, these symptoms can escalate to bowel obstruction due to the hernia’s interference with normal intestinal function. Such changes in bowel habits significantly impact digestive health and overall well-being.
When the small intestine herniates, it becomes restricted, often leading to compromised blood supply and hindrance in digesting materials passing through to the large intestine. The severity varies based on the hernia’s location and type, with common types such as inguinal, femoral, and incisional hernias being culprits for intestinal obstructions. While hiatal hernias primarily affect the upper digestive system and typically do not cause bowel obstructions, they can result in acid reflux and chest pain.
Nausea – Nausea or vomiting, especially with other hernia symptoms, may signal complications like bowel obstruction. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial as it could indicate a serious problem requiring hernia repair surgery. If hernia contents get trapped in the abdominal wall, it can block bowel movement, causing severe pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Inability To Lift Heavy Objects – If you find lifting heavy objects uncomfortable or if it worsens your hernia symptoms, it might be time to see a hernia repair specialist. The inability to lift without discomfort could indicate the need for surgery. Heavy lifting strains abdominal muscles, worsening hernias and causing pain. Consulting a specialist can offer guidance on necessary treatment options.
So, recognizing these signs—persistent pain, prominent bulge, changes in bowel habits, nausea, and discomfort while lifting heavy objects—is crucial. Timely consultation with a hernia repair specialist can lead to appropriate intervention, improving overall well-being and preventing further complications.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi