Hernia treatment depends on the type of hernia and a physician’s review of each individual case. Various types of hernia exist, including those that occur in the abdomen and thigh, which require specialized treatment. Hernia treatment options usually include surgery but can also consist of at-home care in specific situations.
Thin membranes typically help hold the contents of various body cavities in place. When any portion of these contents begins to bulge outside of the membrane, physicians describe this as a hernia. In most cases, the contents that bulge outside of the membrane are the intestines or fatty tissues of the abdomen.
Hernias can exist in several areas of the body. The majority of hernias occur in the abdominal region and groin area, and these are referred to as abdominal-wall hernias and inguinal hernias, respectively. Other types of hernia include femoral hernias and umbilical hernias.
Treatment depends on whether the hernia is reducible, irreducible, or strangulated. All necessitate a different level of care and treatment. The designation of a hernia will also dictate the urgency of the situation.
The term reducible refers to the ability of the hernia to be pushed back into place. In most cases, physicians prefer surgical measures to accomplish this. If patients have pre-existing medical conditions that make surgery risky, a physician may offer alternative at-home hernia treatment measures.
Home hernia treatment may be suggested for some reducible hernias. This can include using what is referred to as an abdominal binder to help hold the hernia in place and allow the hernia to heal on its own. Patients should avoid heavy lifting and coughing during treatment. Bindings are not an option for femoral hernias.
Treatment options are different for irreducible hernias. They require emergency surgery to prevent strangulation of the blood supply going to various organs and tissues. In some instances, patients who have experience a reducible hernia in the past may experience irreducible hernias later in life. An irreducible hernia that has already cut off blood supply, typically to the intestine, is considered a strangulated hernia, which is a medical emergency and requires emergency surgery.
Prevention may not always be possible, but some precautions can be taken to reduce the possibility of developing a hernia or worsening a current hernia. This includes maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding heavy lifting. Other activities, such as straining during bowel movements and coughing, can also lead to a hernia.
