Are You at Risk of a Hernia?

Healthy human organs have specific, fixed positions. When an organ, such as the intestines, shifts to an improper location or becomes trapped, it can cause pain and discomfort, and potentially be life-threatening.

Juan Pablo Zhenlio, MD, a general surgeon at New York Baikang Rende Medical Group, explains that a "hernia" occurs when an internal organ protrudes through a weakness in the abdominal wall muscles or fascia. This often happens in areas like the groin, navel, or surgical incision sites, with groin hernias being the most common, especially in men.

What are the symptoms of a groin hernia?** Typically, a lump appears in the groin or scrotal area, which is often soft and may be accompanied by pain or discomfort when walking. This lump can develop gradually or suddenly protrude during activities like lifting heavy objects, coughing, or straining during bowel movements. The lump usually retracts when lying down.

Although most hernias are not immediately life-threatening, certain symptoms require urgent attention. If the lump becomes hard, the pain intensifies, the lump cannot be pushed back, the skin becomes red, or nausea occurs, immediate medical care is needed. These symptoms could indicate that the intestines are trapped in the abdominal wall opening, which can cut off blood supply, leading to necrosis and requiring surgical removal, posing a serious risk to life.

Dr. Zhenlio states that open surgery repair is an effective solution for hernias. This procedure involves making an incision at the hernia site, locating the abdominal wall defect, and using a synthetic mesh to reinforce the damaged area. This minimally invasive surgery requires only light anesthesia, allowing for same-day discharge. For patients in good overall health, the risks associated with this surgery are relatively low.

For those who opt not to undergo surgery, hernia patients should take certain precautions: avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting; refrain from smoking to reduce coughing caused by respiratory and lung conditions; and prevent constipation to minimize pressure on the abdominal wall, thereby alleviating hernia symptoms.