Why hernias don’t heal on their own
A hernia is an opening or weak spot in the muscle wall through which tissue pushes. Unlike a strained muscle, that opening does not close with rest. Over time, everyday pressure from coughing, lifting and standing tends to make it larger.
When surgery is usually recommended
- The hernia causes pain, aching or a dragging feeling
- It is getting bigger
- It limits your work, exercise or daily life
- It is hard to push back in
- It is a type with a narrow opening, such as a femoral hernia, which has a higher risk of trapping tissue
When watchful waiting can be reasonable
For some adults with a small inguinal hernia that causes little or no discomfort, careful monitoring is a reasonable option. Studies have shown that the risk of an emergency in this group is low, although many people eventually choose surgery because symptoms develop.
Watchful waiting may also make sense when someone’s other health problems make surgery riskier. The decision is individual and should be made with a surgeon who has examined you.
Talk with Dr. Arsenous about your options.
Signs that need emergency care
Sometimes tissue becomes trapped in the hernia (incarceration) and its blood supply can be cut off (strangulation). This is a surgical emergency.
Go to the emergency room if a hernia becomes firm, tender and will not go back in, turns red or purple, or if you have severe pain, vomiting, or cannot pass gas or stool.
What about hernia belts?
A truss or support belt can make some people more comfortable, but it does not repair the hernia and can irritate the skin with long use. It is a short-term measure, not a treatment.
The bottom line
If you have a bulge in your groin or abdomen, have it examined. Many hernias are best repaired on a planned basis, before they become an emergency. Dr. Arsenous will give you a clear recommendation and explain the options, including inguinal, umbilical and ventral hernia repair.