Hernias are a fairly common condition that affects people of all ages and genders. They occur when an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot or tear in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Although hernias can develop in various areas of the body, the most common types of hernias are inguinal hernia, femoral hernia, umbilical hernia, hiatal hernia, and incisional hernia. Understanding the symptoms associated with each type of hernia is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Hernias can occur without initially causing intense symptoms, however over time they are likely to trigger severe symptoms.
Hernias in the groin and symptoms they cause
The most common form of hernia is the inguinal hernia, which develops in the groin. Inguinal hernias account for about 75% of all hernia cases, and are more common in men. Symptoms of an inguinal hernia may initially include a visible or palpable lump in the groin or scrotum. This swelling often becomes more pronounced when the patient stands or stretches and may disappear when lying down. Patients with an inguinal hernia may also experience pain or discomfort in the groin, which may worsen with physical activity, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing. Some people may sense a feeling of pressure or weight in the groin.
Hernias that develop in the groin and cause annoying symptoms include femoral hernias. Femoral hernias are less common than inguinal hernias and mainly affect the female population. They occur when abdominal contents protrude through the femoral canal, a narrow passage near the groin. A femoral hernia initially manifests as a lump forming in the upper thigh or groin. This lump may be visible or palpable in the area where the thigh meets the groin. Patients may also experience pain or discomfort in the groin or upper thigh, which may worsen with physical activity or strain.
Umbilical hernia symptoms
Umbilical hernia usually develops in infants, but it can also occur in adults. This form of hernia occurs as a result of the projection of part of the fatty tissue or intestine through a weak point of the muscles near the navel. Umbilical hernia symptoms initially include the appearance of a soft lump or swelling near the belly button. The lump may be more noticeable when the patient cries, coughs or performs intense physical effort. Although umbilical hernias are typically painless, they can cause discomfort, especially if the hernia becomes larger or tightens. In some cases, the area of the hernia may be red or tender to the touch, indicating a possible complication.
Symptoms of hiatal hernia
Hiatal hernias occur inside the abdomen, when part of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through the diaphragm. These hernias usually cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which manifests itself with disturbing symptoms. In other words, the symptoms experienced by the patient are not related to the hernia itself, but to the gastroesophageal reflux caused by the hernia. Some of the symptoms that occur are heartburn, acid reflux from the stomach, difficulty swallowing, eating or digesting food, bloating and nausea. Chest pain may also occur, which is particularly noticeable after meals or when the patient lies down.
Incisional hernias and symptoms
Incisional hernias develop at the site of a previous surgical incision and manifest with disturbing symptoms. They occur when the abdominal tissues protrude through a weak point in the abdominal wall. Symptoms of an incisional hernia initially include the appearance of a lump or swelling at the site of surgery. The lump may appear near the surgical scar and may become more prominent with prolonged standing or physical effort. Patients may also feel pain at the hernia site, particularly during physical activities or when lifting heavy objects.
Hernias and alarming symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms associated with different types of hernias is essential for early detection and appropriate management. Hernias present with characteristic symptoms, which in some cases may be alarming and indicate complications such as obstruction or strangulation of the organ that projects through the hernia. Bowel strangulation is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention. Urgent surgery is necessary as stricture can lead to life-threatening complications for the patient, such as disruption of the circulation of the intestinal contents resulting in obstructive ileum or disruption of the blood flow to the organ which is likely to lead to ischemia and then its necrosis. Therefore, a valid diagnosis and appropriate treatment is considered imperative.
Most hernias are treated surgically, as conservative treatment cannot provide substantial results. The General Surgeons in Athens apply in the majority of cases the laparoscopic, minimally invasive approach to the treatment of all types of hernias. Thus, laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery, laparoscopic umbilical hernia surgery, and open surgery, if the needs of the case do not allow laparoscopy, are applied with excellent success rates.
