How to Determine if Hernia Surgery is Necessary

Because of the risks associated with the procedure, you should talk with your physician and determine if hernia surgery is necessary. Hernias are a bulging of the intestines caused by the weakening of a portion of the muscles in the abdominal wall. Sometimes a portion of the intestine can slip through the muscle wall and cause serious complications.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Ask your physician to outline all the risks of the surgical procedure. Hernia repair can cause complications including bleeding and infection, as well as reactions to the anesthetics or other drugs used in the procedure.
2. Find out the risks of an untreated hernia. A hernia left untreated can grow larger which causes more pain and discomfort and eventually may lead to other complications such as an obstructed bowel.
3. Evaluate your overall health. If you are in decent physical condition and have a healthy immune system, you should consider getting hernia surgery done if advised to do so by a doctor.
4. Consider your age. Older people suffering from small hernias may not wish to undergo hernia surgery as the strain of recovery may be more harmful than the hernia itself. Again, talk to your physician before making a final decision.
5. Discover what kind of hernia you have. Hernias that restrict the blood flow to the intestines or other organs require surgical attention to fix.

Tips & Warnings

• Common symptoms of a hernia are unusual bulges on the abdomen or groin that have a burning feeling and weakness or pressure in the groin. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should see your physician.
• Inguinal hernias are the most likely to restrict blood flow to the intestines and should be considered and treated as a medical emergency.
• Hernias are painful, and if neglected, a hernia can develop into a major and even life-threatening medical problem. See a doctor if you think you are suffering from a hernia.