Do not suffer for Hernia in silence
A hernia is a protrusion of an organ through an abnormal opening or weak wall in the body. Most hernias occur when a piece of intestine slips through a weakness in the abdominal wall, creating a bulge you can see and feel. Hernias can develop around the naval, in the groin, or any place where you may have had a surgical incision. Some hernias are present at birth. Others develop slowly over a period of months or years. Hernias also can come on quite suddenly.
In hernia, the discomfort you feel especially when you cough, lift something heavy, or stand for a long time comes from the constant pressure of tissue pushing its way through the weakened spot in you body. As more tissue pushes through the weakened area, the feeling of pressure increases. A hernia that develops or worsens quickly can produce a sudden intense pain as it enlarges.
An untreated hernia will not get better on its own, although it may not get worse for months or even years. A hernia that can be easily pushed back or flattened (reducible hernia) is generally not an immediate danger to your health, although it can be painful. A non-reducible hernia, however, can become life-threatening if part of the intestine gets trapped, or strangulated, in the opening. This is called an incarcerated hernia and in an emergency situation may require immediate surgery.
Limiting activity or eliminating excess weight may provide temporary relief. Wearing a truss or binder has also offered temporary relief. The only cure, however, is surgery. Although there are always risks and side effects associated with surgery. Today's surgical techniques provide patients with treatment options that offer minimal post-operative discomfort, speedy recovery, and lasting relief.
A hernia cannot only be painful, but also potentially life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor if you have signs of a hernia.
The writer is Coordinator and Senior Consultant, General and Laparoscopic Surgery, Apollo Hospitals Dhaka.
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