A hernia is a condition characterized by a protrusion of an organ into an opening. It can be an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. Hernias usually occur in the abdomen although they can also occur in the belly button, groin, and upper thigh areas. It is estimated that about 5 percent of the population will develop abdominal wall hernia. Seventy-five percent of this is an inguinal hernia.
Different Types of Hernia
There are different types of hernia. The most common ones are:
- Inguinal hernia
Accounting for about 70 percent of all hernia cases, an inguinal hernia is the most common type. It occurs when the intestines protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. - Hiatal hernia
A hiatal hernia is usually seen in people over the age of 50. It occurs when part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm, the large muscle that separates the chest and the abdomen. - Femoral hernia
Mostly likely to occur in women, a femoral hernia appears just below the groin crease. This type of hernia occurs as a result of weakness in the lower groin area, allowing the intestinal sac to drop into the femoral canal. - Umbilical hernia
This type of hernia develops near the navel or belly button. It usually occurs in infants or just after birth but may resolve at three or four years of age. - Incisional hernia
As its name implies, an incisional hernia develops at the site of previous surgery. It may develop weeks, months, or even years after the surgery. This requires immediate attention as it can get extremely difficult to repair.
What causes a hernia?
Hernias often develop as a result of muscle weakness and strain. This can be due to a congenital defect (e.g. failure of the abdominal wall to close properly in the womb), damage from an injury or surgery, age-related changes, chronic coughing, or certain factors that cause the body to strain (e.g. pregnancy, constipation, heavy lifting, persistent coughing or sneezing).
What are the symptoms of hernia?
A lump or bulge in the area is the most common sign of a hernia. This lump may be felt when you stand up, cough, or bend down.
Other symptoms of a hernia include discomfort or pain on the affected site, pressure, weakness, or feeling of heaviness in the abdomen (in cases of inguinal hernia), and difficulty in swallowing (in cases of hiatal hernia).
Hernia Treatment at Premier Surgical Associates
Hernias can be treated. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, it can be managed through lifestyle change, medications, and surgery. If your hernia is causing pain and affecting your daily life, surgery may be recommended, as it is the only treatment that can eliminate the hernia altogether.
The physicians of Premier Surgical in Knoxville treat all types of hernias -from routine to very complex cases, such as recurrent hernias. When surgery is the best option, we’re here for you.
Premier Surgical’s offers packaged surgery pricing for basic hernia repair procedures performed at the Premier Office Based Surgery Center in west Knoxville. Avoid surgery “sticker shock” with one, packaged price. You’ll know the cost of surgery before you have it, and you won’t have multiple medical bills to pay. You choose your procedure and your surgeon. Your package includes everything involved in your surgery. You know the total cost upfront, with no surprises or hidden fees! Request a consultation today!