"An untreated hernia will not get better on its own, although it may not get worse for months or even years."
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Peter A. Macdonald, M.D. is a Family Practice Physician from Mecosta Health Services in Big Rapids. (231) 796-3200.
Physicians at MHS will care for you both in the office, and at the hospital.
Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
[Research from the Hernia Resource Center web site.]
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National Hernia Awareness Month |
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 5 million Americans have hernias. Each year approximately 750,000 seek treatment, yet physician experts believe hundreds of thousands choose to suffer in silence, primarily because they fear painful surgery.
Do men & women get hernias?:
Yes. Hernias in the groin area (inguinal hernias) are most comon in men, primarily because of the unsupported space left in the groin after the testicles descend into the scrotum.
Hernias in the femoral area, at thetop of the thight, occur most often in women. They commonly result from pregnancy and childbirth.
What is a hernia?:
A hernia is a protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening in the body. Most hernias occur when a piece of intestine slips through a weakness in the abdominal wall, creating a bulge you can see and feel. Hernias can develop around the naval, in the groin, or any place where you may have had a surgical incision. Some hernias are present at birth. Others develop slowly over a period of months or years. Hernias also can come on quite suddenly.
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How do I know if I have a hernia?:
A hernia can be both seen and felt. You may notice it as a lump in your abdomen or groin that may or may not disappear when you lie down. You also may be aware of a dull aching sensation that becomes more pronounced when you are active.
The discomfort you feel – especially when you cough, lift something heavy, or stand for a long time – comes from the constant pressure of tissue pushing its way through the weakened spot in your body. As more tissue pushes through the weakened area, the feeling of pressure increases. A hernia that develops or worsens quickly can produce a sudden intense pain as it enlarges
What if I'm not treated?:
Anuntreated hernia will not get better on its own, although it may not get worse for months or even years. A hernia that can be easily pushed back or flattened (reducible hernia) is generally not an immediate danger to your health, although it can be painful. A non-reducible hernia, however, can become life-threatening if part of the intestine gets trapped, or strangulated, in the opening. This is also called an incarcerated hernia and in emergency situation may require immediate surgery. |
What is the treatment?:
Limiting activity or eliminating excess weight may provide temporary relief. Wearing a truss or binder has also offered temporary relief. The only cure, however, is surgery. There are two reasons for hernia surgery: to correct or prevent a dangerous strangulatged hernia, and to eliminate the pain that may be interfering with your normal activity. Although there are always risks and side effects associated with surgery, today's surgical techniques provide patients with treatment options that offer minimal post-operative discomfort, speedy recovery, and lasting relief.
If you suspect your, or someone yhou know has a hernia, but are avoiding treatment because you are worried about the discomfort and recuperation time of surgery, talk with your doctor. There are more surgical treatment options that are available for hernia repair today than ever before.
 Groin pain is a frequent disability commonly seen in footballers, golfers and other sports players and athletes.
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