Although hernias are most commonly seen in the pelvis and abdomen, they can develop practically anywhere in the body. In a hernia, an organ or other body component bulges through an unnatural opening because the tissue that normally holds it in place has failed to do its job.
Although hernias typically do not pose an immediate threat to life, it does not diminish their terrifying potential. The good news is that they’re usually treatable with simple surgical procedures, so you can relax. Getting medical help as soon as possible after suspecting a hernia is of utmost importance.
Preventing your hernia from getting worse or more painful requires an early diagnosis. In addition, a shorter surgical procedure time often results in better results, quicker recoveries, and fewer hazards when a hernia is repaired as soon as feasible.
Dr. Atul Shah suggests adjusting these four habits to help manage hernia symptoms, whether you’re currently having treatment for one or have had one in the past.
Symptoms of a Hernia
1. Keep your weight in check.
Excessive strain or pressure on already-weakened tissues is the leading cause of hernias, and one method to achieve this is to carry around extra weight.
The extra strain that being overweight might place on the abdominal wall increases the risk of hernia development. In addition, hernia surgeries are associated with an increased risk of complications in individuals who are overweight.
You may find it easier to control your symptoms and have better results after surgery if you begin your weight loss journey immediately if you are overweight.
2. Reevaluate your eating habits
Diets can’t fix hernias; only surgery can. However, if you’re overweight, cutting calories can help you lose weight, which can alleviate some of your symptoms and even prevent them from getting worse.
3. Pick the correct workouts
Contrary to popular belief, a hernia does not necessarily mean that you cannot exercise. Maintaining strength, vitality, and a healthy weight all depend on regular physical activity.
Be sure to talk to your doctor about your fitness routine. You should modify your exercise routine based on the type and location of your hernia once your doctor gives you the all-clear to return to your normal routine. Abdominal strengthening and fat-burning activities are usually what are meant for this purpose.
- Even though most people with hernias may still exercise safely, you should probably avoid certain exercises like sit-ups and reverse abdominal crunches.
- Pushing hefty objects
- Pulling and pushing exercises
- Physical actions, including striking
- Finally, exercise can help you feel more in control of your body, including the herniated area.
4. Give up smoking.
In case you didn’t know, hernias are more common among smokers than among nonsmokers. Several factors contribute to this.
We already established that strain is a common cause of hernias. In addition, seemingly harmless things can cause pressure. Some everyday activities, including coughing or urinating, might really cause hernias. A persistent cough is another common symptom of long-term smoking.
Smoking also reduces the body’s ability to produce collagen. The strength of tissues, particularly the abdominal wall, declines when collagen levels drop. On top of that, smoking severely hinders the body’s natural healing processes.
And what was the outcome?
- Recurring hernias occur four times more frequently in smokers.
- Postoperative infections are extremely uncommon in nonsmokers, but they are far more common in smokers.
Conclusion
Could a hernia be causing you discomfort? An in-depth assessment and subsequent planning can be arranged with us. Dr. Atul J. Shah can be reached at +91 95101 50008 or through their website to schedule an appointment or get more information.
