A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak area in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. It can appear as a noticeable bulge or swelling and may become more prominent when coughing, lifting something heavy, or standing for a long time.
Some hernias cause little or no discomfort, while others can lead to pain and complications if left untreated.
At Jeevika Hospital, patients receive a thorough evaluation to understand the type and severity of the hernia. Based on the findings, our surgical team recommends an appropriate treatment plan.
A hernia can develop when there is a weakness in the abdominal wall combined with increased pressure inside the abdomen. The weakness may be present from birth or develop over time.
Factors that may increase the likelihood of developing a hernia include:
Hernias can occur in different parts of the body. Common types include:
An inguinal hernia develops in the groin and is the most common type of abdominal wall hernia. It occurs when tissue pushes through a weak area in the lower abdominal wall.
A femoral hernia occurs near the upper thigh or groin. Although less common than an inguinal hernia, it can have a higher risk of complications and may require timely treatment.
An umbilical hernia develops around the belly button. It can occur in children as well as adults and may become more noticeable when coughing or straining.
An incisional hernia can develop at or near the site of a previous abdominal operation. It may occur months or even years after surgery.
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves upward through an opening in the diaphragm. It can sometimes be associated with symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux.
The symptoms can vary depending on the location and size of the hernia. Common signs include:
Some hernias may not cause any symptoms initially.
Recovery varies from person to person and depends on the type of repair performed. Your healthcare team will provide instructions to help you recover safely.
During recovery, you may be advised to:
At Jeevika Hospital, we focus on providing individualized care from diagnosis through recovery. Our surgical team evaluates each patient carefully and recommends treatment based on their specific condition.
Patients benefit from:
Most adult hernias do not repair themselves because the underlying weakness in the abdominal wall generally remains. Some small, symptom-free hernias may be monitored, but treatment should be discussed with a doctor.
Not necessarily. The need for surgery depends on the type of hernia, symptoms, size, and risk of complications. Your surgeon can recommend whether monitoring or repair is more appropriate.
Laparoscopic repair is commonly used for many types of hernias and can be suitable for selected patients. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, which your surgeon will discuss before treatment.
The duration varies according to the type and complexity of the hernia and the surgical technique used. Your surgeon can provide a more specific estimate after evaluating your condition.
There is a possibility of recurrence after hernia repair, although surgical techniques and mesh reinforcement may help reduce the risk in appropriate cases. Following postoperative instructions can also support recovery.
You should consult a doctor if you notice a new lump or bulge in the abdomen or groin, particularly if it causes pain or becomes larger. Seek urgent medical attention if the bulge becomes very painful, firm, or cannot be pushed back, especially when accompanied by vomiting or abdominal swelling.
