By: Dr. Donna Powell & Dr. Renee M. Marchioni Beery at Gastro MD
June is Hernia Awareness Month, a time to focus on understanding hernias and their potential impact on your health. Hernias affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Yet, despite their prevalence, many people are unaware of the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for hernias. Let’s explore what you should know about hernias and how you can raise awareness.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia is when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot or tear in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. The most common type of hernia is an inguinal hernia, which occurs when a portion of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles.
Various factors, including age, genetics, and lifestyle choices, can cause hernias. Obesity, pregnancy, and heavy lifting can also increase the risk of developing a hernia.
Hernia Symptoms
The symptoms of a hernia can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. However, common symptoms of a hernia include:
– Heartburn or acid reflux (in the case of hiatal hernias)
Sometimes, a hernia may cause no symptoms, making diagnosing difficult without a physical examination.
Hernia Treatment Options
Treatment options for hernias depend on the type and severity of the condition. Sometimes, a hernia may require surgery to repair the affected area and prevent further complications. In other cases, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise, and avoiding heavy lifting may be enough to manage the symptoms of a hernia.
Raising Awareness
Now is an excellent opportunity to educate yourself and others about this common medical condition. Here are five ways you can get involved and raise awareness:
5) Support hernia research and education: Donating to organizations supporting hernia research and education can help raise awareness about this common medical condition and improve treatment options for those affected.
By considering these tips, you can become a more informed and proactive participant in Hernia Awareness Month and help promote awareness and understanding of hernias in your community.