Warning Signs of a Hernia

Signs You May Have a Hernia

If you have a hernia, it won't go away on its own. It's important to recognize the signs and symptoms and seek medical care if you suspect you may have one.

What is a Hernia?

The trunk of your body has several layers of muscle and tissue that helps to protect your internal organs. When an organ pushes through a gap or opening in the wall of protective muscle and tissue, this is called a hernia.

There are several different types of hernias:

• Inguinal: Affecting the groin.
• Umbilical: Through the belly button.
• Incisional: Through an existing scar.
• Hiatal: Through a small opening in the diaphragm.
• Congenital diaphragmatic: A birth defect.

Common Causes of Hernias

Hernias are typically brought on by a combination abdominal muscle weakness and strain. Some common activities and incidents that can lead to a hernia include:

• Being born with a birth defect.
• Damage to the abdominal wall from injury or surgery.
• Pregnancy.
• Straining during a bowel movement.
• Being overweight or obese.
• Aging.
• Chronic coughing.

Signs & Symptoms to Look Out For

Common symptoms that may suggest that you have a hernia include:

• A bulge in the abdomen that you can see or feel.
• Acing or sharp pain around the affected area.
• A feeling of pressure in the affected area.
• Pain that worsens during physical activity.
• A tugging sensation around the testicles.

Although hernias aren’t typically a serious cause for concern, they require surgery to repair as they don’t go away on their own. If you suspect that you may have a hernia, be sure to reach out to your primary care doctor to discuss surgical treatment options.

Hernia Repair Surgery in Jackson, Wilson, and Teton County

At St. John's Health, we are dedicated to providing ever-advancing individualized care. Our highly skilled surgeons use state-of-the-art robotics to assist with various surgeries in Jackson, WY. Robotics allows surgeons to be more precise, and carry out minimally invasive procedures that help patients to feel better, faster.

Talk to your surgical care team today to discuss your robot-assisted surgery options at St. John's Health.