A hernia occurs when an internal organ, such as the intestine or stomach, is pushed through the muscle or tissue that holds the organ in place. This condition usually occurs in the abdomen, but can also appear on the belly button, upper thighs, and groin. Hernias are usually painless and look like soft bumps under the skin, although they can sometimes grow and turn into serious conditions. If you feel pain and discomfort, you may need surgery to treat the hernia. If you suspect you have a hernia, see your doctor for a diagnosis. Get medical help if you have a fever, worsening pain, constipation, or if the hernia changes color.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Reducing and Overcoming Pain
Step 1. Take over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve discomfort
You can reduce pain and swelling using aspirin and ibuprofen. Always follow the recommended dosage on the medicine package and do not take it more than the daily limit. If the pain doesn't go away or you need to take more medicine for pain relief, see a doctor immediately.
If you are taking blood thinners, talk to your doctor before taking painkillers. The doctor will choose certain drugs that do not interfere with the performance of blood thinners
Hernia Type:
Most hernias eventually require surgery, especially if the hernia swells or causes severe pain. Some types of hernias that people often suffer from include:
Inguinal hernia: This hernia appears in the groin area and usually occurs in men, although it can also be experienced by women.
Femoral hernia: This hernia is located around the top of the inner thigh, and is caused by the intestine being pushed into the groin area. This is often experienced by older women.
Hiatal hernia: This hernia occurs in the abdomen when a part of the abdomen enters the chest cavity.
Umbilical hernia: This hernia occurs when tissue is pushed into the abdomen near the belly button. This can happen to babies as well as adults.
Step 2. Avoid heartburn-causing foods and large amounts of food if you have a hiatal hernia
This is a type of hernia that sometimes doesn't require surgery, especially if the symptoms can be managed with diet and over-the-counter antacids. However, if the symptoms get worse, surgery may be the best solution.
- Eat small meals several times a day, instead of eating 3 large meals. This is useful for reducing pressure on the stomach, which makes you more comfortable.
- Do not consume caffeine, chocolate, tomatoes, garlic, and fatty or fried foods that can cause heartburn.
- Do not lie down immediately after eating. Wait a few hours later.
Step 3. Wear a truss to relieve discomfort due to an inguinal hernia
A truss is a supportive undergarment that can keep the hernia in place. This is a temporary solution to relieve pain before you have surgery. Trusses can be purchased online, but you should see a doctor to make sure they are installed correctly.
- Most inguinal hernias require surgery, but if the hernia is very small and painless, your doctor may wait and watch for progress.
- Surgery may look scary, but it usually takes no more than an hour and can provide quick pain relief.
Step 4. Eat foods that contain lots of fiber so that you can defecate smoothly and easily
Straining can make the hernia worse, and constipation will make things worse. Increase your intake of vegetables and fruits, and try taking fiber supplements so that you can pass stools smoothly.
Some foods that are high in fiber include: oatmeal, beans, beans, popcorn, chia seeds, and whole grains
Step 5. Lose weight to remove pressure from the stomach
It is very beneficial for all types of hernias. The less weight you have to support, the less stress your muscles will take. Try changing your diet by eating low-fat protein and increasing your intake of vegetables and fruits. Also try to lose weight by doing light exercise every day.
Hernias can be uncomfortable and may make it difficult for you to exercise. Try taking a light walk for about 15 minutes if you can, or swimming slowly. Do this gently so that the hernia does not get worse
Method 2 of 3: Preventing Further Damage
Step 1. Avoid lifting heavy or large objects that can strain the muscles
Instead of bending over to pick up a heavy object, bend your knees into a squat. Bring the object closer, then straighten your legs and stand up. Hold heavy objects at chest level and don't twist your body excessively.
If you are unable to lift heavy objects, try using a dolly (a type of trolley for transporting goods). Place the bottom of the dolly under the object, then use your body weight to press the dolly handles to lift the object. After that, you can push it where you want it
Step 2. Defecate in a relaxed manner so that the groin area is not tense
This may be a bit counterintuitive, but try not to strain when you have a bowel movement. Take a lot of time and don't push yourself. Let the body do its job slowly. This may take longer than usual, but is more comfortable for the body and can prevent the hernia from getting worse.
- High-fiber foods can help prevent hernias and relieve discomfort.
- Placing your feet on a short stool can also relax your muscles and make it easier for you to defecate.
- Add a cup of hot coffee to your morning routine. Heat and caffeine can help you to have a bowel movement.
Step 3. Strengthen the abdominal muscles to prevent another hernia from appearing
Weak muscles allow internal organs to penetrate the abdominal wall easily. The key to strengthening the midsection is to do it gently. Excessive exertion or pressure can actually cause a hernia. So start slowly and stop any exercise that can make you feel pain.
- Try doing 3 sets of mini crunches of 10 repetitions each day. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your hands behind your head. Lift your shoulders off the floor 8-10 cm using your abs, then carefully lower your body back to the floor.
- Do strength training with low resistance in the pool. The water support makes it easy for you to do the exercise without overworking your abdominal muscles. Start slowly if you haven't been swimming or doing water sports in a while, and have fun there.
- To stretch and tone your midsection, you can take a yoga class for beginners.
Step 4. Quit smoking to make your lungs healthier and get rid of coughs
There are many reasons that require you to quit smoking, and this includes helping prevent hernias. Coughing constantly makes the abdominal and groin muscles tense. So, start quitting smoking gradually or quit immediately (cold turkey method).
Quitting smoking can be very difficult. If you find it difficult to do so, consult a doctor. He may be able to provide assistance so you can break this habit easily
Method 3 of 3: Seeking Medical Help
Step 1. Go to a doctor for an official diagnosis before you treat a hernia yourself
You may be able to recognize the symptoms and signs of a hernia, especially if it is large. However, self-diagnosis can lead to wrong conclusions. Go to the doctor to determine if you do have a hernia. Your doctor will properly diagnose your condition so you can get the appropriate treatment.
- The doctor will check for hernias by performing a physical exam. He will see the area and maybe press it with his hand.
- In some cases, your doctor may run imaging tests to look for the hernia.
Step 2. Consult a pediatrician if your child has an umbilical hernia
If the hernia occurs in infants or children younger than 5 years, always consult a pediatrician for the recommended treatment. Hernias in babies usually go away on their own over time, but if they don't go away by the time your child is 5 years old, your doctor may perform a minor procedure to treat them.
Umbilical hernias are common in infants, and generally do not cause pain or discomfort in children
Step 3. Tell your doctor if you had a hernia while pregnant
The added pressure on the body often makes pregnant women suffer from hernias. If you suspect you have a hernia, go to the doctor for an examination. Your doctor will most likely wait until you give birth and recover before performing surgery to treat the hernia (if needed). However, you and your baby must be safe before the doctor can do this.
Try not to lift heavy objects, and don't forget to eat fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation
Step 4. Go to the doctor as soon as possible if the hernia turns dark red or purple
This may be a sign that the hernia is pinched. If this happens, the hernia will block blood flow to part of the intestine, requiring you to seek medical attention. Go to the doctor for a checkup as you may need emergency treatment.
Try not to panic or worry – your doctor will be able to handle this condition
Step 5. Seek medical help if you experience pain, nausea, vomiting, or intestinal obstruction
Hernias can sometimes block one part of the intestine. This means that feces (stool) will get trapped behind the hernia, which can cause pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. You will most likely not be able to fart or have a bowel movement. If this happens, go to the doctor or hospital because you may need medical treatment.
This condition can be treated, although it feels very scary when experiencing it. As soon as you suspect this problem, seek medical help so that you can get back to health as soon as possible
Step 6. Have surgery to treat the hernia and prevent it from appearing in the future
This procedure is usually done quickly and you don't need to stay in the hospital. The surgeon will make a small incision near the hernia and push it back into place. After that, the doctor will suture and strengthen the incision to prevent hernias from appearing in the future.
Make sure you follow all recovery instructions after surgery. You should relax and not lift heavy objects for a while. You may also need to take pain medication
Tips
Try to feel the hernia by standing up. Sometimes you can return it to its original position by gently massaging the area of the hernia. Your doctor may also do this to treat a hernia
Warning
- If surgery is not performed, some hernias can grow in size. You should always see a doctor if you have a hernia.
- Go to the doctor immediately if you experience nausea, vomiting, fever, increased pain, constipation, or the hernia changes color.
