What is a Hernia?
Most people experience hernias in their groin or stomach. A hernia can look like a bump or cyst that appears when you do strenuous exercises or activities. Sometimes it doesn’t cause any pain, and other times it does. More than likely, if you have a hernia, you will need it to be surgically removed.
What are the Symptoms of a Hernia?
While many people don’t experience any symptoms of a hernia, there are some signs you can look for if you think you may have one.
Lump
The most common symptom of a hernia is a lump in the groin or stomach area. If you have a hernia, you may notice that the lump comes and goes depending on what you are doing. More involved activities may cause the hernia to show itself.
Pressure
A pressure, discomfort, or pinching sensation around the hernia area is another symptom many people with hernias experience.
Heartburn and Chest Pain
If you are experiencing heartburn and chest pain in addition to the lump in your groin or stomach, it may be likely that you have a hiatal hernia.
What Causes a Hernia?
Hernias are caused by high strain and muscle weakness. The specific cause may help you to prevent further hernias or other types of issues. These causes may include aging, a congenital disability, injury or surgery damage, strenuous exercise or weight lifting, persistent coughing, COPD, pregnancy, constipation, obesity, and ascites.
Additionally, there are risk factors that could make you more susceptible to getting a hernia. These include being born prematurely, being older, having a persistent cough, and having cystic fibrosis.
Have an Untreated Hernia?
Call NYC Hernia at 212-879-6677 to make an appointment with our internationally recognized hernia surgeon, Dr. Brian Jacob, or request an appointment online to find out if you have a hernia and what treatment options are available to you.
