General Surgery Blogs

Dr. Steven Williams in Boise, Idaho

18Feb

Could It Be A Hernia?

Dr. Steve Williams | hernia, hernia surgery, general surgeon, general surgery | General Surgery | | View Counts (10418) |Return|

A hernia is a little bulging organ or tissue that goes through an abnormal opening. This could happen for many reasons, including carrying something that is a little too heavy. The problem is usually not dire, but it can be painful. Some people hear a loud, ripping sound when it happens.

The sharp pain could be debilitating for some, but it should quiet down with time. A bulge or some swelling may be accompanied with the pain. This could happen in the abdominal section of the body or near the groin. It could even happen in the testicles.

Hernias are quite common, but that does not mean there will not be any complications. It is important to remember that this issue could get worse. One complication linked to a hernia is when a piece of the intestine becomes trapped in the hernia.

This issue could cut circulation rather quickly. This could lead to more pain, nausea, and vomiting. Some people develop a cold or flu-like symptoms. It is important to go to the doctor as soon as possible should these symptoms begin as this might require an operation.

The problem is usually closely monitored as the issue usually fixes itself. The hernia relaxes, and the tissue should slowly go back to normal. Of course, the health care specialist may use a device to help nudge the process along if it the hernia seems stubborn, and surgery is always a possible option, too. Still, a health care provider will probably not suggest surgery because it is an unnecessary risk most of the time. Keep in mind that this surgery will expose other valuable tissue, so it is best to try to let the body heal itself.

Do not make the mistake of thinking that the hernia does need to be looked after by a professional, no matter what. Some may indeed grow, and leaving it untreated may put a person at risk of a worse condition. Some hernias grow enough to obstruct other organs, which could do serious damage.

This should give you a little more information about hernias and why they should not be taken lightly.

If you have been experiencing hernia-related issues, and you believe it has hit a point where it needs to be looked at by a professional, then click here for hernia repair options.

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Practicing General Surgery in the Boise area since 2002