If you are suffering from a hernia in Jacksonville, New Life Surgical Associates can help you.  Our team of experienced surgeons understands compassionate, fast, and effective treatment of a hernia is essential.  This guide will help you better understand the symptoms and treatment options available to you.

What Is A Hernia?

When an organ pushes through openings in the tissue or muscle meant to hold it in place, the condition is called a hernia.  Hernias can occur in many places, but the abdomen is most commonly affected. Other places a hernia can occur are:

• Upper thigh
• Belly button
• Groin areas

The condition will not correct itself.

Common Types Of Hernias

There are three common types of hernias:

• Inguinal Hernia – Inguinal hernias are the most common type, making up about 70 percent of all hernia cases. They occur when the intestine pushes through the lower abdominal wall, and mostly affect the inguinal canal or the groin area.  They are most common in men.
• Umbilical Hernia – Umbilical hernias affect children under six months old.  They occur when the intestines push through the abdominal wall.  As the name indicates, this happens near the belly button.  It is the only type of hernia that may resolve itself.
• Incisional Hernia – Incisional hernias may occur after abdominal surgery as a result of the intestines pushing through the incision or weakened tissue.

What Causes A Hernia?

Muscle weakness and strain cause hernias.  They may develop quickly or over time.

Causes of muscle weakness that may lead to a hernia include:

• congenital defect
• age
• chronic coughing
• damage from injury or surgery

Causes of strain that may lead to a hernia are:

• constipation
• pregnancy
• lifting heavyweight
• ascites
• suddenly weight gain
• surgery
• persistent coughing or sneezing

What Are The Symptoms Of A Hernia?

The first visual symptom of a hernia is often a bulge or lump in the affected area. The lump is often felt more when standing, bending down, or coughing.  In infants, it will be prominent when crying.

Some symptoms of an inguinal hernia include:

• Lower abdominal pain
• Weakness or pressure
• Feeling of heaviness in the stomach
• A burning or gurgling sensation around the bulge

Some symptoms of a hiatal hernia include:

• Acid reflux
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing

There are cases where a hernia may be asymptomatic.

Treating A Hernia

The type of treatment, or if treatment is needed at all, depends on the size of your hernia and your symptoms. In mild cases, it may just be monitored.  In the event treatment is needed options include:

– Lifestyle changes such as adjusting your diet
– Medications like antacids, H-2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors
– Surgery

Treatment for a Hernia in Jacksonville, FL

Surgery is recommended when your hernia is growing or causing pain.  A hernia is repaired with open or laparoscopic surgery. If you believe you are suffering from a hernia in Jacksonville, FL, please contact New Life Surgical Associates today to schedule a consultation.