Hernia Month

Hernia is a common medical condition. It occurs when an organ or body tissue pushes itself through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue. 

Hernias are very common in the abdominal area but they can also develop in other areas such as the belly button, groin, and upper thigh.

What causes a hernia?

Hernias, in general, occur as a result of pressure and an opening or weakness of muscle or fascia. In some cases, the muscle weakness is present at birth but oftentimes, it occurs later in life. 

Anything that causes an increase in pressure in the abdominal area can increase one’s chance of having hernias. This includes heavy lifting without stabilizing the abdominal muscles, persistent coughing or sneezing, and constant diarrhea and constipation.

Being obese and a smoker also increase one’s risk of developing hernias. These factors can weaken muscles, which make hernias more likely to occur. 

What are the symptoms of hernia?

The most common symptom of a hernia is a lump or bulge on the affected area. For example, if you have an inguinal hernia, you may notice a lump on either side of your pubic bone. You are more likely to feel this lump when you stand, bend down, or cough.

Other common symptoms of hernia include pain or discomfort, a feeling of pressure or heaviness, and an aching sensation on the affected site.

How are hernias treated?

Treatment options for hernia depends on its size and the severity of the symptoms. Initially, the doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to help ease the symptoms. This includes losing weight (if obese or overweight) and avoiding large meals and lying down or bending over after eating. Although these things can help minimize the symptoms, these won’t make the hernia go away. 

Surgery is the only way to treat hernia. It is often recommended for large hernias that are constantly causing discomfort. 

At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville and Cleveland, we offer offer different surgical options for hernia. We offer the laparoscopic repair, a minimally invasive procedure for pushing the organs or tissues back to their original position. If appropriate, we also do open hernia repair, the more conventional procedure in which the surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen or groin.

Your Premier Surgical physician will discuss these treatment options with you and determine the best repair method for your case. IF you have a high insurance deductible or are not insured,  Premier Surgical offers convenient package for basic hernia prepare performed at our Surgery Center on Papermill Drive. Visit https://www.premiersurgerypackages.com/ or call (865) 306-5755 for more details. 






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