Ways To Treat A Hernia

Hernias are bulges that occur when increased pressure in the body causes an organ to push through weak areas of muscle or tissue. Most hernias are located in the abdomen, and they can also occur in the groin area, thigh, or around the navel. The most common type of hernia, known as an inguinal hernia, accounts for seventy percent of all hernia cases. This occurs when the intestines break through the wall of the abdomen and into the inguinal canal. Risk factors of developing a hernia include smoking, obesity, poor diet, and improper performance of heavy lifting tasks. Hernias can also be caused by recent surgery, constipation, pregnancy, sneezing, and chronic coughing. All of these place increased strain on the abdomen. Hernias usually present as a lump that can often be felt when standing up or coughing. Depending on the hernia's location, some patients may experience heartburn, a heavy feeling in the abdomen, and chest pain. Doctors diagnose hernias by completing a physical examination of the affected area. Sometimes, ultrasounds or x-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis. The methods described below can help prevent and treat hernias.

Avoid Eating Heavy Or Large Meals

Patients with active hernias and those who are seeking to prevent hernias need to take special care when planning and eating meals. Eating heavy or large meals can exacerbate the burning sensation and other symptoms of acid reflux that are common with hiatal hernias (when the stomach pushes upward into the chest) and can also increase the sensation of pressure and heaviness in lower abdominal hernias. Hernias can cause an increase in stomach acid and may cause food to leak into areas where it should not normally be. Patients should avoid eating heavy or large meals and aim to eat smaller but more frequent meals, as this will make digestion easier and prevent pain as well as other symptoms. For example, consuming two to three hundred calories at each meal and eating six meals each day can help control symptoms and manage hunger simultaneously. Patients should not skip meals. At mealtime, always eat sitting up to promote healthy digestion, and do not bend or lie down for at least an hour after eating. Patients are advised to stop eating at least three hours before going to bed to reduce acid reflux at night.

Keep reading for more advice on treating a hernia.