June is Hernia Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Understand Your Options, and Take Action
Each June, Hernia Awareness Month shines a spotlight on a condition that affects millions of Americans yet often goes overlooked until symptoms become severe. At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, Tennessee, we believe awareness is the first step toward timely diagnosis and effective treatment. If you or a loved one is living with a hernia, our experienced surgical team is here to provide expert care and help you return to a pain-free, active life.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While hernias can develop in several areas of the body, the most common types include:
- Inguinal Hernias (in the groin)
- Umbilical Hernias (around the belly button)
- Hiatal Hernias (upper stomach, through the diaphragm)
- Incisional Hernias (at the site of a previous surgical incision)
- Femoral Hernias (upper thigh/groin area)
Some hernias may be present from birth, while others can result from strain, injury, or previous surgeries. Common risk factors include obesity, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, and pregnancy.
Why Treatment Matters
Hernias typically do not heal on their own and can worsen over time. While some may not cause immediate discomfort, untreated hernias can lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation—conditions that require emergency surgery.
Signs you may have a hernia include:
- A noticeable bulge under the skin
- Pain or discomfort, especially when bending, lifting, or coughing
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen or groin
- Digestive issues, such as acid reflux (in hiatal hernias)
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early evaluation can lead to better outcomes and less invasive treatment options.
Expert Hernia Care at Premier Surgical
At Premier Surgical Associates, our board-certified general surgeons are experts in diagnosing and treating all types of hernias using the latest surgical techniques, including both open and minimally invasive procedures. Our physicians are experienced, performing thousands of hernia repairs each year,
Depending on the type and severity of the hernia, our surgeons may recommend:
- Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery.
- Robotic Hernia Repair: Offers enhanced precision and better visualization for complex or recurrent hernias.
- Open Hernia Surgery: Ideal for larger or more complicated hernias.
Our comprehensive approach includes preoperative evaluations, personalized surgical planning, and attentive post-op care. We’re with you every step of the way.
Take the First Step Today
During Hernia Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to learn more about this common but treatable condition. If you think you may have a hernia, or if you’ve been putting off getting treatment, there’s no better time than now to act.