All You Need to Know about Hernia Complications
We know a Hernia has only one treatment, in surgery. If the hernia is left untreated, then some complications can increase the risk will developing a bowel obstruction or an incarcerated hernia. This emergency occurs when the intestines push through the abdominal wall and become pinched, preventing your bowels from functioning properly. The result is waste build-up and a rupture. Sepsis and possible death can be the result. Hence hernia needs the right treatment from an expert hernia surgeon. In this Blog, Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a Hernia surgeon in Chennai, guides us on hernia complications and how they affect the quality of life. Before going the the hernia complications firs,t we will overview what a hernia is and its types. At GEM Hospital in Chennai, expert care is available for those seeking the best in hernia surgery.
What is Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the muscle or connective towel, creating a conspicuous bulge or lump, generally in the abdomen or groin region. Hernias can develop sluggishly over time or suddenly due to conditioning that raises the pressure inside the tummy, similar to heavy lifting or straining.
Types of Hernia:
Complications of Untreated Hernia:
Untreated hernias can lead to a range of problems, from mild discomfort to severe complications. Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, the best laparoscopic hernia surgeon in Chennai, explains some of the common issues that can arise.
- Increased Pain and Discomfort: As a hernia increases in size, it exerts less pressure on the surrounding tissues, resulting in intensified pain and discomfort endured by the patient. This heightened strain on the girding structures can lead to a range of symptoms, including sharp or throbbing pain, aching sensations, and increased sensitivity in the affected area. Also, the expanding hernia may impinge on the nerves, causing firing pains or numbness.
- Incarceration: Incarceration happens when part of the intestine or abdominal wall gets stuck in the hernia sac, causing significant discomfort and potentially severe complications. This trapped towel can lead to violent and painful pain, affecting colourful areas of the tummy and causing discomfort like sharp pains. People passing this condition may also feel queasy, heave, and bloated due to disintegrated digestion. In severe cases, the trapped towel can fully block the bowel, creating a medical exigency that needs immediate attention.
- Strangulation: This is a medical emergency where the blood supply to the trapped tissue in the hernia sac is cut off. Without immediate treatment, strangulation can cause tissue death( necrosis) and potentially life-threatening complications like gangrene.
- Obstruction: A hernia can block the normal flow of contents in the digestive tract, causing symptoms like bloating, constipation, and difficulty passing gas.
- Hydrocele or Spermatic Cord Swelling: In men with untreated inguinal hernias, there can be fluid buildup( hydrocele) or swelling of the spermatic cord, leading to discomfort and occasionally affecting fertility.
- Surgery Complications: Surgery complications can arise when a hernia isn’t promptly treated and progresses to a more complicated stage. At this point, surgical repair becomes further gruelling and poses a heightened risk of various complications. These may include infections, whiplash damage resulting in sensations like numbness or tingling, and the possibility of the hernia returning after surgery, known as a rush. It’s pivotal to address hernias beforehand to minimise these pitfalls and ensure a smoother surgical outcome.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic pain, limited mobility, and other hernia-related issues can significantly reduce a person’s quality of life, impacting their work, physical activities, and daily enjoyment.
Untreated hernias can go from a nuisance to a serious health risk. This blog post, featuring hernia surgery expert Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, sheds light on the potential complications of leaving a hernia untreated. While some discomfort might be the initial symptom, hernias can lead to severe pain, blockages, tissue death, and a reduced quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid these complications. Don’t wait—book an appointment with Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy today to discuss your treatment options and prevent serious complications.