IS HERNIA CURABLE WITHOUT SURGERY?
Q
My mum was diagnosed with a hernia recently. What is it, and can it be cured without an operation?
A
The abdominal wall is made up of layers of muscles and tissues. Weak spots may develop in these layers and protrusion, or hernia, occurs when part of an organ bulges through this weak spot of the abdominal wall. The most common abdominal hernias are in the groin (inguinal hernias), in the diaphragm (hiatal hernias), and the belly button (umbilicus). Abdominal hernias can develop in different regions of the abdomen or pelvis, a previous surgical site (incisional hernia), and between the abdomen and thigh (femoral hernia).
The patients can see and feel the bulge created by the hernia while standing, straining, coughing, or while lifting a heavy object. Pain, weakness or pressure may be experienced in the affected area. Some hernias don’t cause any symptoms, and people might not know they have one until their doctor discovers it during a routine medical exam.
The causes of hernia are increased pressure within the abdomen, a weak spot on the abdominal wall, straining during bowel movements or urination, strenuous activity, pregnancy, and chronic coughing or sneezing.
Abdominal hernias develop later in life when muscles weaken or deteriorate due to aging. Fatty tissue in the abdomen is usually the first tissue to exit the hernia.
Non-operative measures like corsets, external application, compression dressing, and medicines addressing the cause can help at this stage. Problems arise when part of the intestine pushes through the weakened muscle and becomes trapped.
Watchful waiting is an acceptable treatment option in a patient with minimally symptomatic hernia.
A treatment approach should be selected after a careful evaluation of type of hernia, stage and underlying causes.
The Ayurvedic approach to hernia is based on internal medicines to reduce abdominal pressure and external applications or bandages to repair/ strengthen the abdominal wall.