How myths obstruct hernia treatment
HERNIA is a medical condition in which a tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, resulting in a bulge that can be painful, especially when one coughs, bends over or lifts a heavy object.
There are several types of hernia, including inguinal, umbilical, femoral and hiatal, which can be repaired through a common surgical procedure to prevent them from leading to life-threatening complications. Apart from being painful, hernia can also cause patients to vomit and not tolerate food.
However, in some rural communities in the country, misconceptions about the condition are prevalent, with the superstitious ones arguing that hernia is caused by witchcraft or curses, beliefs which often lead to delayed or lack of treatment, especially among children.
Despite hernia being common and treatable through surgical repair, some communities rely on traditional healers or spiritual leaders like sangomas or white garment prophets to address the condition.
Such misconceptions were evident when Mrs Tendai Gusha (63), of Kondo village in Chipinge, discovered that her grandson, Artwell Mlambo (four) had a swollen groin.
Concerned, she sought advice from neighbours, hoping to get an insight into what could have triggered the swelling.
Instead of advising her to seek medical assistance, the neighbours blamed Artwell’s condition on witchcraft, and advised her to seek spiritual intervention.
The advice perpetuated harmful superstitions than addressing the medical condition.
“They told me that this was witchcraft at play. They argued that my grandson was being bewitched because people were jealousy that my daughter had left him in my care, and was sending me money every month to buy grocery.
“That was not even the case because my daughter was actually going through a tough time, and had given me her son as she could not afford taking care of him,” she said.
However, the sister-in-charge of Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital’s Family
Child Health Department, Mrs Pelagia Nyamarebvu said misinterpretation of medical conditions as products of witchcraft leads to delays in getting requisite medical treatment, worsening the patient’s condition and perpetuating unnecessary suffering.
“It is important to note that while traditional remedies may offer temporary relief of symptoms, they typically do not address the underlying structural issue causing hernia. Surgery remains the most effective and reliable treatment for hernia, providing a permanent solution by repairing the weakened muscle or tissue, and resultantly reduce the risk of complications. Therefore, individuals with hernia are encouraged to seek medical evaluation and consider surgical options recommended by healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcome for their health and well-being,” she said.
According to estimates from the World Health Organisation (WHO), thousands of children worldwide die from complications related to untreated hernia each year.
“WHO recognises hernia as a significant health concern, particularly because it can lead to complications if left untreated. WHO advocates for timely diagnosis and appropriate management of hernia to prevent complications and improve health outcomes,” reads the organisation’s website.
According to paediatric doctor, Dr Agnes Saunyama, if a parent or guardian of a young hernia patient opts for other remedies like spiritual counsel instead of surgery, several potential outcomes may occur, some of which could be harmful.
“There might be symptom progression because without surgical intervention, the hernia is likely to persist and potentially worsen over time. The bulge or lump associated with the hernia may grow larger and become more uncomfortable or painful. There will also be an increased risk of complications since untreated hernia has the potential to lead to complications such as bowel obstruction, strangulation or incarceration,” she said.
Strangulation occurs when the hernia becomes trapped and loses its blood supply, which can lead to tissue damage or death.
“Hernia may also cause ongoing discomfort or pain, impacting the individual’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities as well as limiting mobility and activity for the patient,” she said.
The paediatrician said delayed medical treatment and relying solely on spiritual counsel may delay the diagnosis of other medical conditions that could be contributing to the hernia or causing similar symptoms.
Luckily, Mrs Gusha followed the advice of a close neighbour who urged her to seek medical attention before turning to traditional remedies.
Acting on the advice, she took Artwell to Kondo Rural Health Centre, where a nurse, a Mrs Mudzamiri examined him.
“Recognising the seriousness of the situation, Mrs Mudzamiri recommended that we seek further evaluation at Rimbi Clinic, which is a more specialised facility in the area. It was at Rimbi Clinic that Dr Mbiri diagnosed Artwell with a hernia,” said Mrs Gusha.
Dr Mbiri wasted no time in dispelling the notion of witchcraft, emphasising the importance of seeking treatment from medical professionals.
He assured Mrs Gusha that hernia can only be addressed through medical intervention, and discouraged any thoughts of seeking help from traditional healers.
“When I finally received a clear diagnosis and guidance, I felt a renewed sense of hope. I was so relieved that the condition was not spiritual and that it could be treated. Dr Mbiri referred us to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital for further treatment.
“His clear directive to rely solely on medical professionals for Artwell’s care relieved me of any doubt or hesitation. I had been contemplating turning to traditional healers out of desperation, but the doctor’s guidance restored my hope and determination to pursue the necessary medical intervention for Artwell. I am immensely grateful for his advice, as it prevented me from making a potentially harmful decision, and allowed us to focus on securing the medical attention that my grandson urgently needed,” she said.
Artwell eventually received the surgery for free last week after Mrs Gusha travelled more than 250km from Kondo to Mutare for the live-changing surgical procedure.
Spiritual healer, Mr Ephraim Chagwadama concurred that patients with hernia and similar conditions should be directed to hospitals.
“I consistently advocate for these cases to be addressed by medical professionals at hospitals. I know that certain conditions require the expertise of professionally trained doctors,” he said.