What is a Hernia – Gastroenterologist North Sydney
When part of a body organ protrudes through an opening in the muscle or tissue, we are suffering a hernia. This can occur in many parts of the body. The most common type consists of the intestines breaking through the abdominal wall, but other types of hernias can also occur in the chest, thigh, groin or hips.
We might experience the hernia as a bulge in our body. It will tend to be more noticeable when we are upright, and painful when we strain or cough or bend over.
Hernias are not an immediate threat, but they can grow worse over time, or cause complications. They may require surgery to prevent matters from growing worse. With rare exceptions they do not disappear over time.
Types of Hernia – Gastroenterologist North Sydney
Inguinal Hernia – The most common type of hernia, this is where the intestines push through a break in the lower abdominal wall. In men this can occur in the spermatic cord above groin. In women it can occur in the ligament hat holds the uterus in place.
Some males are at a greater risk of inguinal hernias because the canal above the groin which is mean to close after birth has remained partly open.
Hiatal Hernia – This is where part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. The diaphragm muscle, part of the breathing mechanism, normally separated the abdomen organs from the chest. When the stomach in the abdomen protrudes through to the chest it often causes a burning sensation as the stomach acid leaks into the oesophagus.
Ventral Hernia – This occurs in the abdomen, where an organ protrudes through the muscle. This can occasionally be present from birth, but is more likely to develop after childbirth, or obesity, or severe strain. In some cases, a previous operation in the abdomen will leave a weakness in the muscle that is prone to forming a hernia.
Some young infants will suffer a hernia in their abdomen near the navel. This is the one type of hernia that can disappear over time as the muscles grow stronger. But if the child still suffers the hernia at the age of five an operation is probably required.
Treatments – Gastroenterologist North Sydney
The doctor may operate on the hernia, which is the only real cure. Or they might imply monitor a less problematic hernia to make sure it does not develop complications. In some cases, a truss (a supportive undergarment) can hold the hernia in place, largely relieving the symptoms.
Exercise is a complicated matter when it comes to hernias. Some exercises, such a weightlifting, can cause a hernia, and can certainly strain a pre-existing hernia. Proper exercise technique will reduce the risk of developing a hernia. But if we already have a hernia we must abstain from all heavy lifting.
A doctor or physical therapist may advise some non-straining exercise and weight loss methods to help reduce the symptoms of a hernia. Some exercises will improve the success of hernia operations.
Gastroenterologist North Sydney
If you suspect a hernia, then consult our doctors. Treatment or surgery is required to cope with a hernia.
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