Hernia Treatment
What Is a Hernia?
Hernia treatment begins with understanding what a hernia is. A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall. This wall is formed from layers of muscle and connective tissue that normally protect the abdominal organs, including the bowel. As a hernia specialist, Mr. Khan recommends seeking an early diagnosis.
Most hernias develop in the abdomen or groin, often around the belly button or the inguinal region. They usually appear as a lump or bulge that becomes more noticeable when standing, coughing or straining. Many people experience discomfort or pain, particularly during physical activity. If symptoms persist, consulting an experienced hernia specialist is recommended.
Types of Hernias
Inguinal hernia
The inguinal canal is a natural passage in the groin. In men, it carries the spermatic cord, and in women it contains the round ligament.
An inguinal hernia forms when abdominal contents push through a weak point in this canal, creating a visible bulge in the groin. In some men, the swelling may extend into the scrotum.
Femoral hernia
A femoral hernia occurs when abdominal or pelvic contents pass through the femoral canal, a narrow space just below the groin crease.
Femoral hernias are more common in women. Due to the higher risk of strangulation, an early surgical repair is usually advised. This should be performed by an experienced Hernia Specialist.
Umbilical or paraumbilical hernia
These hernias develop at or near the belly button. They are common in infants and may close naturally during early childhood. In adults, they usually arise due to increased abdominal pressure from factors such as pregnancy, obesity, chronic coughing or heavy lifting.
Adult umbilical hernias rarely resolve on their own, and surgical repair is often recommended.
Epigastric hernia
An epigastric hernia occurs in the midline between the belly button and the breastbone. These hernias often contain fatty tissue and appear as a small, tender lump in the upper abdomen.
They do not disappear spontaneously and may require surgery if they cause pain or continue to enlarge.
Incisional hernia
An incisional hernia appears at the site of a previous surgical scar and results from incomplete healing of the abdominal wall. They are more likely to occur if there has been wound infection, obesity or heavy strain.
Incisional hernias do not resolve without surgery, and many benefit from mesh reinforcement to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Symptoms
Most hernias cause a visible or palpable lump, along with a dragging or heavy sensation. Pain or discomfort is common, especially when standing, lifting, coughing or straining. These symptoms often fluctuate, and the lump may reduce when lying down.
If symptoms persist, early hernia treatment can prevent complications.
What is an incarcerated or strangulated hernia?
A hernia becomes incarcerated when its contents become trapped and cannot be pushed back into the abdomen. This may cause persistent or worsening pain, nausea, vomiting or tenderness over the lump. If the blood supply becomes compromised, the hernia is described as strangulated, which is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate surgery. Sudden pain, firmness or a lump that does not reduce should prompt urgent medical attention at any time of day or night.
Hernia treatment options
Hernia treatment depends on the type, size, and symptoms. An experienced hernia surgeon can advise on the safest approach
Can a hernia be managed without surgery?
Watchful waiting may be suitable for people with minimal symptoms or those who are at high surgical risk. However, a hernia will not repair itself and may worsen over time. Consult a hernia specialist if symptoms persist
An open hernia repair
Open hernia repair is a well-established technique performed through a single incision over the hernia. The defect in the abdominal wall is repaired and often reinforced with surgical mesh. This approach is reliably performed by any expert hernia specialist and is the recommended treatment for many midline hernias, such as umbilical and epigastric hernias, and for first-time unilateral inguinal or femoral hernias.
What is laparoscopic (keyhole) hernia repair?
Laparoscopic repair is a minimally invasive procedure performed under general anaesthetic through several small incisions. A mesh is placed internally to reinforce the defect from behind the muscle wall.
This method is often recommended for bilateral groin hernias, recurrent groin hernias and some complex midline hernias.
Patients often experience less pain, quicker recovery and a lower risk of wound infection compared with open surgery.
When is emergency surgery needed?
Emergency surgery is needed if a hernia suddenly becomes very painful, if it cannot be pushed back into the abdomen, or if symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or redness develop. These may indicate strangulation, where the blood supply to the hernia contents is compromised.
This is a surgical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Patient Information from British Hernia Society
Consult hernia specialist Mr. Khan to discuss these patient resources and plan your personalised treatment:
Information provided is for general guidance and does not replace a personalised consultation.