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About Hernia/Types of Hernias and other frequently asked questions
What is a hernia?
A hernia is a weakness or tear in the abdominal muscle that allows fatty tissue or an organ to protrude through the area.
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How common are hernias?
Hernias are very common. Over 5 million Americans get hernias annually. One of every 200 adults in the United States will see a doctor this year for treatment.
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Where do hernias occur?
Hernias can occur anywhere over the abdominal wall, as well as in the groin and umbilical areas.
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Are there different types of hernias?
The most common types are inguinal, incisional, femoral, umbilical and hiatal.
Type of hernia |
Area affected |
Common occurrence |
Inguinal hernia |
The groin |
Men |
Epigastric hernia |
Above the navel in the upper-middle abdomen |
More common in women |
Femoral hernia |
Between the abdomen and thigh |
More common in women |
Incisional hernia |
The site of an incision from a previous surgery |
Surgical patients |
Umbilical hernia |
The navel area where the umbilical cord was attached |
Babies, children and adults |
Hiatal hernia |
The diaphragm, the muscle separating the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity |
Anyone |
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Causes and Effects
What causes hernias?
All hernias are caused by a combination of pressure and a tear or weakness in a muscle. The pressure pushes an organ or tissue through the tear or weak spot. Many hernias begin at birth with a weak area in the abdominal wall.
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Can heavy lifting cause a hernia?
Straining to pick up heavy objects can cause a hernia.
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How does smoking affect a hernia?
Chronic coughing from lung irritation, in addition to exposing the abdominal wall to nicotine, increases a smoker’s risk for developing a hernia
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Why are men more susceptible to hernia?
While hernias are more common in men because of a potentially weak spot in the groin, they can occur in anyone.
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Symptoms
How can I tell if I have a hernia?
You may notice an obvious bulge under your skin in the groin, umbilical or abdominal area. You may also have significant pain and discomfort, which worsens when you stand for a long time, urinate, have a bowel movement or lift heavy objects.
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Treatment
Is it necessary to get medical treatment for a hernia?
Yes, an untreated hernia will become larger and more painful. If you even slightly suspect that you have a hernia, see a doctor for a diagnosis to avoid serious and dangerous complications resulting from lack of treatment. If your doctor confirms that you have a hernia, you can then discuss your treatment options.
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Do hernias always require surgery?
The only way to cure a hernia is with surgery. Your surgeon will determine the technique that is best for you.
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How do surgeons repair hernias?
The surgeons at the Bon Secours Hernia Center at Mary Immaculate specialize in developing hernia treatments based on each patient’s individual needs. Many of the procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques, which result in smaller incisions, fewer stitches, less pain and much faster recoveries.
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Recovery
How long is the recovery period?
Complete recovery takes two to four weeks, though patients usually can resume normal activities the next day.
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Will my hernia occur again?
A hernia can reoccur.
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Prevention
Is there anything I can do to prevent recurrence?
The best thing you can do to prevent a hernia from reoccurring is to follow your physician’s advice. In addition, you should eat right, avoid smoking, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight and using proper lifting techniques.
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Can I prevent a hernia?
There is no way to prevent a hernia. However, following these tips for preserving your health can help:
- Practice good nutrition to help you avoid the constipation that can lead to straining during a bowel movement.
- Do not smoke. Chronic coughing from lung irritation can put you at increased risk for a hernia. It can also cause one to recur.
- Exercise regularly to tone and strengthen your abdominal muscles.
- If you are overweight, try to lose weight to ease the pressure on your abdominal muscles.
- Use proper lifting techniques and avoid lifting weights that are too heavy for you.
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Insurance
Will my insurance cover hernia repair?
Yes, your insurance will cover hernia repair surgery since any hernia repair is necessary surgery
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