Weakness and/or Overexertion Cause Hernia
A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. Hernias are most common in the abdominal area where, for example, the intestines break through a weak area of the abdominal wall. However, hernias can be found in the upper thigh, navel, and groin areas.
Hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and exertion. They can form quickly or develop over time. Coughing, congenital issues, injury, or prior surgery can cause muscle weakness which could lead to a hernia. Strain/overexertion combined with generally weak muscles contributes to the formation of a hernia. Pregnancy, chronic constipation, weight lifting, obesity, or overexertion can also cause a hernia.
Dr. William H. Johnson and Dr. Christopher J. Hart are experts in hernia repair. Johns Creek Surgery, PC, has the latest tools and technology to correct several types of hernia conditions:
Hernias are Common
The National Center for Health Statistics reports that about 5 million Americans have hernias. The problem can be corrected by a simple surgical procedure. However, many put off or avoid surgery because they fear a painful procedure with a long recovery period. The truth is, hernia surgery is a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure, and patients can return to their regular activity schedule within a few days. Fortunately, new procedures and techniques allow surgeons to offer a variety of safe, simple, and quick procedures that can alleviate patient concerns about hernia repair surgery and recovery. Modern hernia surgery can be done in an ambulatory surgery center using local or epidural anesthesia. In many cases, the surgery can be completed using a laparoscopic procedure in under an hour. Patients return home a few hours after surgery with little or no pain. Following doctor’s orders, patients can resume most regular activities in a few days. There is no reason to wait to seek treatment.
Symptoms of a Hernia
A bulge or lump in the area of the hernia is the most common symptom. A hernia can be felt most clearly when you are standing. Umbilical hernias are most often diagnosed by the evident bulge near the navel. Symptoms of the inguinal hernia include pain/discomfort when coughing, lifting or bending over. Hernias can also be associated with weakness, aching, or pressure in the lower stomach. The ventral hernia can induce nausea, vomiting, and pain along with the bulge of skin or tissues in the abdominal area.
Schedule a Consultation
Hernias can be painful and, if left untreated, can have other adverse consequences. If you are in pain and ready to get back to your normal routine, call Dr. William H. Johnson or Dr. Christopher J. Hart to make an appointment for evaluation and schedule your outpatient procedure.
Johns Creek Surgery, PC, located in Johns Creek, GA, attracts patients from all over the metro Atlanta area and beyond including Duluth, Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, Gainesville, Canton, and Marietta, GA. Our board certified surgeons, Dr. Christopher Hart and Dr. William H. Johnson perform medical procedures or surgeries that do not require an overnight stay.