Around 27% of men and 3% of women experience an inguinal hernia at some point in their lifetimes. This sounds like a serious problem, and it can be, but there is good news.
Treating a hernia can often be without surgery. There are also various types of medication to alleviate pain. Surgery is now only used where necessary.
What are the alternatives to hernia surgery? Are there any signs of a hernia that need immediate attention? Read on to learn about hernias and why surgery shouldn’t always be the first option.
Exploring Symptoms and Diagnosis of Hernia
Common symptoms include pain or tenderness in the affected area. It can also include pressure or a burning sensation, a bulge or lump, or a feeling of fullness or choking. If symptoms become unbearable, it is likely that the hernia needs surgery.
Physicians may assess the need for surgery by examining the patient and the types of hernias. If the hernia is small and not causing any symptoms, no surgery may be necessary.
If the hernia is large, painful, or causing other issue, it may need surgery to avoid complications or further damage to the affected area. Surgical repair of the hernia is the best and safest solution often.
Surgical Techniques for Hernia
Surgical repair is the best and often the only treatment. The decision of which technique to use will depend on the type of hernia. It also requires the preferences of the surgeon and patient. Here are the two different surgical techniques to repair hernias.
Open Hernia Surgery
The doctor will make a small incision in the abdominal wall and then insert a mesh patch over the hernia. The mesh patch will help to keep the hernia from popping back out.
The doctor may also use sutures to close the abdominal wall. The operated area should heal in a few weeks.
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery
The procedure utilizes a laparoscope. Inserting a thin tube with a tiny camera through a small incision in the abdomen. The surgeon is then able to see and identify the hernia and the surrounding tissue. By using specialized tools, they can excise the hernia sac. The doctor can then proceed to repair the weakened area of the abdominal wall using a mesh patch or stapling.
You should also check out procedures like the robotic hernia surgery found here. It is a surgical technique used to repair a hernia that is safe and offers fast results.
Natural Therapies and Alternative Treatments
Natural therapies such as diet and exercise can have a positive effect as well. Alternative treatments include herbal supplements and physical therapy. It’s also proven to improve hernia symptoms.
Natural therapies and alternative treatments are also less invasive. It also comes with fewer risk factors. While these treatments may help, the supervision of a medical professional is still needed.
Consult a Professional to See if a Hernia Surgery is Needed
Hernia surgery is necessary to ease pain and prevent further injury. In some cases, managing hernia without medical intervention is possible.
The decision of whether to proceed with surgery requires approval from a doctor. When considering a hernia condition, be sure to seek professional medical advice. Making sure to determine the best course of action.
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