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Hernias are a common medical condition that can affect people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. While some hernias are harmless and cause little to no discomfort, others can become painful or lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Understanding what a hernia is, how it occurs, and when it warrants medical attention can help you manage the condition safely and effectively.
A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This results in a bulge or lump, often visible under the skin, especially when coughing, standing, or straining.
Most hernias occur in the abdomen or groin, but they can also form in other parts of the body. The underlying cause is typically muscle weakness, strain, or a combination of both.
This is the most common type, especially in men. It happens when part of the intestine or abdominal tissue protrudes through the inguinal canal in the groin. It may affect one or both sides and often causes a visible bulge in the groin or scrotum.
Common in infants, this type occurs when the abdominal wall near the belly button doesn't close completely after birth. Adults can also develop umbilical hernias due to obesity, pregnancy, or heavy lifting.
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It’s less visible externally but may cause heartburn, chest discomfort, and acid reflux.
This type of hernia can develop at the site of a previous surgical incision if the wound does not heal properly, allowing tissue to push through.
More common in women, a femoral hernia forms near the upper thigh, just below the groin. Though less common, it has a higher risk of complications and may require prompt surgical treatment.
Hernias often result from a combination of muscle weakness and increased abdominal pressure. Some common triggers and risk factors include:
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the hernia. In many cases, you may notice:
Not all hernias cause symptoms, especially early on. However, even asymptomatic hernias can worsen over time.
While some small hernias may not require immediate treatment, you should consult a doctor if you experience:
A hernia becomes a medical emergency if it becomes incarcerated (trapped outside the abdominal wall) or strangulated (when the blood supply is cut off to the tissue). Symptoms of a strangulated hernia include:
If you suspect a strangulated hernia, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Diagnosing a hernia typically involves a physical examination and possibly imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, depending on the location and severity. These may include:
Small, painless hernias that aren’t growing may be monitored without immediate surgery, especially if they pose minimal risk.
Doctors may recommend weight loss, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating chronic cough or constipation to prevent worsening.
Surgery is the only definitive treatment for most hernias. It can be done through:
Your surgeon will advise the best approach based on the type, size, and your overall health.
While not all hernias can be prevented, certain habits can reduce your risk of developing one:
Hernias are more common than many realise and can range from minor nuisances to medical emergencies. If you notice a suspicious bulge or experience symptoms that interfere with your daily life, speak with a doctor to evaluate the situation and explore your treatment options.
Consultant Vascular & General Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Singapore), FRCS (Edinburgh)
A skilled vascular and general surgeon in Singapore with 25 years of experience, Dr Sujit Singh Gill’s main interests include the minimally invasive treatment of venous, arterial and diabetes-related vascular disorders. His expertise in general surgery also allows him to treat various colorectal, gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary conditions with good patient outcomes. Having trained in Singapore, Australia and the United Kingdom, Dr Sujit Singh Gill’s diverse background also helps put his patients at ease.
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The Vascular & General Surgery Centre
Unit 18-05, Paragon Medical Suites, 290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6736 2302
Fax: +65 6736 4186
Whatsapp : +65 8866 7837
Email: enquiry@tvgsc.sg
24-hour Answering Service : +65 6535 8833
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