A hernia is the leakage of a bowel originating from the pressure of internal organs, such as the intestine or stomach, through an orifice in the muscle or tissue that normally contains it. It occurs most frequently in the abdomen, but can also form in the upper thigh, umbilical area, and groin region. In most cases it is not painful and is characterized by a soft swelling under the skin, but sometimes it grows and becomes more severe. If it causes you pain and discomfort, you probably need surgery to fix the problem. If you have this suspicion, consult your doctor to get an exact diagnosis, but don't hesitate to ask for his opinion even in case of fever, worsening pain, constipation or discolouration of the hernia.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Relieve and Manage Pain
Step 1. Take a pain reliever to relieve discomfort
Aspirin and ibuprofen are useful for soothing pain and swelling. Follow the dosage recommended in the package insert and do not exceed the daily dose. If you notice that the situation is not improving or if the medications are not effective, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.
If you are taking blood thinners, always consult your doctor before using pain relievers. He may prescribe something else so it doesn't interfere with your drug therapy
Types of hernia:
in general, almost all types of hernia are treated surgically at one time or another, especially if they cause swelling or a lot of pain. The most common ones include:
Inguinal hernia: forms in the groin area and mostly affects men, although women can also be affected.
Femoral hernia - occurs near the upper inner thigh and is caused by the pressure of a portion of the intestine through the groin. It is more common among older women.
Hiatal hernia - forms on the abdomen when part of the stomach pushes into the chest cavity.
Umbilical hernia - occurs when fatty tissue or part of the intestine pushes through the abdomen into the umbilical region. It can affect children as well as adults.
Step 2. Avoid foods that cause heartburn and large meals if you have a hiatus hernia
It is the only type of hernia that does not necessarily involve surgery, especially if the symptoms can be managed through a proper diet and the intake of antacids. However, if the latter worsen over time, surgery may be the best solution.
- Eat smaller meals instead of three large ones. This way, the food you eat will put less pressure on your stomach and you will feel better throughout the day.
- Avoid caffeine, chocolate, garlic, tomatoes, and other fatty or fried foods that can cause heartburn.
- After eating, wait a few hours before lying down.
Step 3. Relieve the discomfort of inguinal hernia with a suitable belt
The hernial girdle is an orthopedic appliance that helps keep the hernia in place: it is a temporary solution that allows you to relieve pain until you have surgery. You can buy it on the Internet, but it is better to consult with the orthopedist so that he teaches you how to wear it correctly.
- Inguinal hernia can be treated surgically in most cases, but if it is very small and does not cause pain, your doctor may advise you to wait and keep an eye on it.
- The idea of the surgery might be a little agitated, but it usually lasts less than an hour and allows for quick pain relief.
Step 4. Follow a diet rich in fiber to facilitate intestinal transit
On the one hand, muscle tension risks aggravating the hernia, on the other hand constipation worsens the situation. So, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables every day and consider taking a fiber supplement to promote intestinal motility.
Oatmeal, tree nuts, beans, corn, chia seeds, and whole grains are also excellent high-fiber food sources
Step 5. Lose weight to relieve pressure on the abdomen
Losing weight is useful in most cases where you suffer from hernia, because the less weight you have to carry, the less muscle tension will be. Try modifying your diet by consuming leaner protein sources, as well as more fruits and vegetables. Also, try some physical activity every day to lose weight.
It is difficult to think about exercising if the hernia causes a lot of discomfort. As soon as you can, try walking for 15 minutes or go to the pool and swim slowly. However, avoid getting tired so as not to aggravate the situation further
Part 2 of 3: Preventing Further Complications
Step 1. Avoid lifting bulky or heavy objects to avoid straining your muscles
Instead of bending at the waist and lowering your torso to pick up a heavy load, flex your knees by squatting. Grab the object, then straighten your legs and stand up. Keep it at chest height and try not to twist your body.
If you can't lift it, consider using a forklift. Fit the lower part under the object, then applying a little pressure grab the handle to lift it and move it wherever you want
Step 2. Relax when you need to go to the bathroom, so as not to strain the muscles in the groin area
It sounds counterintuitive, but avoid straining yourself while bowing stool. Take your time so you don't push. Instead, let the intestine do its job quietly: it may take longer than usual, but you will treat the body more gently and prevent further complications from developing.
- A high-fiber diet can help prevent hernias from forming or manage the discomfort if you already have them.
- Try to relax your muscles and encourage evacuation by placing your feet on a low stool.
- Drink hot coffee for breakfast. The heat and caffeine help stimulate intestinal transit.
Step 3. Strengthen your abdominal muscles to prevent more hernias from forming
Weak muscles facilitate the escape of internal organs through the abdominal walls. Therefore, you need to strengthen the main muscles of the core, but gently: too much pressure or too much effort could actually promote the onset of a hernia, so start slowly and stop exercising if you feel pain.
- Try doing 3 x 10 sets of small crunches per day. Lie on your back with your knees bent and place your hands behind your head. Use your abdominal muscles to lift your shoulders 7-10cm off the ground before gently lowering them back down.
- Choose the pool for low intensity muscle strengthening. The hydrostatic thrust promotes physical activity without straining the abdominals too much. If you've never swam or taken a water aerobics class, start gradually and have fun!
- Take a beginner yoga class to gently stretch and tone your core muscles.
Step 4. Stop smoking to improve lung health and eliminate persistent cough
There are many reasons to quit smoking, including preventing hernias. Chronic cough, in fact, strains the muscles of the abdomen and groin, so the number of cigarettes begins to decrease or get rid of this habit permanently.
Sometimes it is very difficult to quit smoking. If you have any problems, see your doctor. He may advise you on some cessation methods
Part 3 of 3: Seeking Medical Assistance
Step 1. Consult your doctor for a clear diagnosis before treating yourself
You are likely able to recognize the signs and symptoms of a hernia on your own, especially if it is large. However, you may be wrong, so ask your doctor for advice to make sure it is indeed the condition. He will formulate a correct diagnosis in order to provide you with all the necessary treatment.
- He will perform a physical exam to locate it. He will observe the affected area by squeezing it with his hands.
- In some cases, he may order imaging tests to visually identify it.
Step 2. See your pediatrician if your child develops an umbilical hernia
For infants and children under the age of 5, you should always consult your pediatrician to find out his opinion on this problem. Many times, in younger people, the hernia disappears on its own over time, but if it does not happen within 5 years of life, it is possible to have surgery to eliminate it.
Umbilical hernia is a common phenomenon in children, but it usually does not cause pain or discomfort
Step 3. Tell your doctor if you have a hernia during pregnancy
Due to the strong tension spread all over the body, hernia is a common problem among pregnant women. If you have this suspicion, see your doctor so they can check for it. Most likely he will want to wait for you to give birth and recover before surgery, in order to protect your health and that of the unborn child.
As far as possible, avoid lifting heavy loads and eat a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation
Step 4. Get examined immediately if the hernia turns a dark red or purplish color
It could indicate a throttling. In other words, it blocks the blood supply to a part of the intestine and, therefore, must be treated promptly. See your doctor to make sure you are okay as you may need emergency surgery.
Don't worry and don't panic - your doctor will tell you how to fix the problem
Step 5. Call the emergency services in case of pain, nausea, vomiting or intestinal blockage
Sometimes, the hernia can obstruct a part of the intestine resulting in blockage of intestinal transit which causes pain, nausea, vomiting and swelling. To these symptoms can be added the enormous difficulty in expelling intestinal gas and feces. In these cases, consult your doctor or go to the emergency room, as it is obvious that you need medical attention.
While it sounds scary, it's a problem that can be cured. As soon as you suspect a complication, don't hesitate to get examined so it can be handled promptly
Step 6. Undergo hernia correction surgery to prevent other episodes
This is a fairly quick procedure that allows you to be discharged on the same day. Typically, the surgeon makes a small incision near the hernia site, returning the intestinal tract to its original location. He will then proceed to suture and reinforce the torn tissue, in order to decrease the risk of another protrusion.
Make sure you follow all post-operative medical directions. You will need to avoid straining and lifting heavy loads for some time; you will probably also need to take pain relievers
Advice
Try standing up to feel the hernia under your fingers. Sometimes, you can even put it back in place by gently massaging the area. Surely the doctor is able to do this
Warnings
- Sometimes, the hernia becomes more voluminous if surgery is not done. Never underestimate this problem, but consult your doctor.
- If you experience nausea, vomiting, fever, increased pain, constipation, or discoloration at the hernia site, call your doctor right away.
