Busting Common Hernia Myths with Facts
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Discover the truth behind common hernia myths. Learn about hernia types, risk factors, complications, and why timely surgical treatment is essential. Expert insights from Dr. Kapil Agrawal.
Busting Common Hernia Myths with Facts
A hernia happens when an organ or tissue pushes through a point of concern in the muscles that typically keep it set up. It resembles a lump or a knot that you could feel under your skin. Commonly hernias that appear are inguinal hernias (in the crotch) and umbilical hernias (around the tummy button).
Surgical procedure is frequently expected to fix a hernia by shutting the opening and returning the organ or tissue to its original place. It is important to look for an expert opinion if you suspect you have a hernia for the timely treatment. We have listed here possible causes, treatments about hernia in this article and also going to shed light on various facts and myths about hernia usually people keep in mind.
Types of Hernias
The different types of hernia include:
1. Inguinal Hernias
More common in men, these groin hernias occur. The usual course of treatment is surgery, which frequently involves using mesh to strengthen the damaged area.
2. Femoral Hernias
These are less common than inguinal hernias and show up as upper thigh hernias. Usually, surgery is advised to avoid complications like a blocked intestine.
3. Umbilical Hernias
Usually affecting newborns, these hernias entail a bulge close to the belly button. Most go away on their own by the time a child turns one, but in chronic cases—especially in adults—surgical procedure may be needed.
4. Hiatal Hernias
These happen when the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and into the chest.
5. Incisional Hernias
These hernias form at the location of a prior surgical incision and are treated surgically, usually with mesh inserted to strengthen the weak abdominal wall.
Who are More Prone to Hernia
Men vs Women
Men are more inclined to hernias than ladies. Nonetheless, ladies can likewise foster hernias, particularly during pregnancy or labour.
Age
Hernias are more common in old age adults because of the regular debilitating of muscles and tissues that happens with maturing. In any case, hernias can influence individuals of any age, including babies.
Hereditary Factors
A family background of hernias can build a person's vulnerability. In the event that direct relatives have encountered hernias, there might be a possibility due to hereditary factors.
Constipation
Straining during pooping, frequently connected with ongoing obstruction, can contribute to the improvement of hernias. The strain in the stomach puts weight on the muscles due to constipation and can give you hernia.
Obesity
Overabundance of body weight can strain muscular strength and increase the risk of hernias. Managing through diet and exercise can assist with decreasing these risks of developing hernia.
Strain by Heavy Weight Lifting
Participating in exercises that include hard work without the right technique can prompt hernias. The strain put on the stomach muscles during lifting can cause hernia.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can add to the advancement of hernias, especially in the stomach wall. The expanded strain on the mid-section during pregnancy can lead to hernia development.
Prolonged Coughing
Persevering and strong hacking, frequently connected with conditions like persistent obstructive aspiratory sickness (COPD) or smoking, can increase stomach pressure and add to hernias formation.
While anyone can get a hernia, certain factors pave the way for possible risk. Sorting out these factors and taking on a right lifestyle, including the right diet, right weight lifting, and regulating conditions like constipation, can help with diminishing the likelihood of hernias.
Possible Risks Due to Untreated Hernia
Hernia ignored and left untreated for a longer period of time can lead to serious complications and even cost you your life. On the off chance that a hernia is left untreated, it can prompt different dangers. Whenever it is ignored or untreated, the hernia can develop bigger over the long run, making it more challenging to treat.
The primary risk is strangulation, where the blood supply to the jutting organ gets cut off. This can cause serious problems, bulge, and be a health-related crisis requiring a quick surgical procedure.
Moreover, difficulties can arise when the hernia protrudes through the opening and cannot be pushed back in, leading to potential complications. In such cases, it is crucial to seek expert advice from a hernia surgery specialist. Surgical procedure is the most well-known therapy, and early intervention by a qualified specialist can assist with effectively treating the hernia. It is therefore better to get your hernia treated as soon as possible.
Busting Common Myths About Hernia
Maintaining good health requires knowing the truths and myths surrounding hernias. Any age or gender can be affected by hernias, and complications can be avoided by getting early detection and treatment. For a correct diagnosis and suitable treatment, seek medical advice from a professional if you suspect a hernia or show any symptoms. Note that timely care can have a major impact on the effective control and treatment of hernias.
Let us have a look at the debunking myths and facts about hernia listed below.
Myth 1: Hernias Only Affect the Elderly
Factual Statement: Individuals of all ages, including newborns, kids, and adults, can develop hernias. Although weakening muscles with age does increase the risk of hernias, hernias can occur in people of any age due to various factors including genetics, obesity, and vigorous exercise.
Myth 2: Hernias Are Found in the Abdomen Only
Factual Statement: Although they are common in the abdomen, hernias can occur in other parts of the body as well. Apart from hernias of the abdomen, other types of hernias include those of the inguinal area (groin), and incisional area (resulting from surgical incisions). Understanding the various types of hernias is essential for accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment.
Myth 3: Hernia is Always Painful
Factual Statement: Not every hernia hurts that much. Certain people may have pain or a bulge where the hernia is, but other people might not have any symptoms at all. Different people experience pain differently, and some hernias are only detected during standard medical exams. It is important to be aware of any unusual experiences or bulges and to get medical help if you have any concerns.
Myth 4: Hernias Can Heal on Their Own
Factual Statement: Hernias usually require medical attention to heal. To restore the damaged muscle or tissue and avoid complications, surgery is frequently required. Ignoring a hernia can result in more serious problems like death by strangulation.
Myth 5: Hernias Can Be Healed with Belts and Binders
Factual Statement: Supportive belts and binders do not treat hernias; however, they may offer momentary relief and aid in managing symptoms. The most efficient and long-lasting treatment for hernias is still surgery, although these devices can be used as a part of prevention or before the operation.
Myth 6: Only Men Get Hernias
Factual Statement: Although women can get hernias, men are more likely to get specific kinds of hernias, like inguinal hernias. In females, hernias can occur as a result of pregnancy, childbirth, and other conditions. Both male and female should understand the warning signs and symptoms of hernias and seek medical attention when required without delay or self-medication.
Conclusion
Hernias can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, and often require timely surgical treatment. Ignoring symptoms may lead to serious complications. Understanding the causes, types, and myths helps in early detection. Always consult a specialist like Dr. Kapil Agrawal at Habilite Clinics for expert advice and safe treatment.
Dr. Kapil Agrawal
Senior Consultant at Apollo Group of Hospitals
About the Doctor

Dr. Kapil Agrawal
Senior Consultant - Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeon
Dr. Kapil Agrawal is a leading and one of the best Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgeon in Delhi, India. He has an overall experience of 23 years and has been working as a Senior Consultant Surgeon at Apollo Group of Hospitals, New Delhi, India. He is performing advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgeries for various conditions, which include Gallbladder stones, Hernia, Appendicitis, Rectal prolapse, and pseudo-pancreatic cyst.
Qualifications
- •MBBS - Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU, Varanasi
- •MS (Surgery) - Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU, Varanasi
- •MRCS (London, U.K) - Royal College of Surgeons, London
Specializations
Why Choose Us
- •Best Outcomes with discharge within 24 hours.
- •High-quality standards with an almost zero percent rate of infection.
- •Best Post Operative Care with round-the-clock availability of team.
- •A team of dedicated nutritionists to make your recovery faster.
- •No hidden charges and fixed and transparent packages.
- •Complete network of cashless insurance available.
- •All paperwork is handled by an expert team to give you a hassle-free experience.
- •Tie up with various agencies to provide you with EMI options at zero rate of interest.
- •Dr Kapil Agrawal, senior consultant laparoscopic surgeon, affiliated with some of the best and finest hospitals in New Delhi.
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Dr. Kapil Agrawal
Consult with Dr. Kapil Agrawal - Senior Consultant - Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeon at Apollo Hospitals, Delhi NCR. 23+ years experience and 7000+ advanced procedures with enhanced recovery care.