Avoiding Hernia Treatment Dangerous

June is National Hernia Awareness Month and although an estimated 5 million Americans suffer from hernias, only a little over a quarter of them seek treatment.

Seniors may avoid talking with their doctor about a suspected hernia because the primary treatment is surgery, however, untreated hernias can lead to severe medical complications. Left alone, the hernia can become strangulated and blood flow cut off resulting in tissue death and possible bowel obstruction. Emergency hernia repairs are one of the most common procedures performed on elderly patients and they carry a high risk of death.

What is a hernia?

A hernia is a weak spot, usually in the inner groin (inguinal), outer groin(femoral) stomach(hiatal) or belly button (umbilical), that allows an organ or fatty tissue to squeeze through.   It can sometimes form as a result of an incision.  Although the weakness can be present at birth, most often it occurs later in life brought on by heavy lifting, constipation, diarrhea or even frequent coughing or sneezing.

Symptoms of hernia

• Soreness and discomfort
• Protrusion from abdomen
• Severe heartburn and vomiting
• A painful or noticeable bulge in the groin or either side of the pubic bone should be seen by a doctor
• Seek immediate help if hernia bulge turns red, purple or dark.

Risk factors

• Older Age
• Weakened abdominal muscles
• Being male; men are 8 times more likely to develop a hernia
• Family history
• Being Caucasian
• Illness
• Surgery
• Childbirth
• Obesity
• Poor Nutrition
• Smoking

To learn more about hernias, their symptoms and treatment, visit the Mayo Clinic website at: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inguinal-hernia/symptoms-causes/dxc-20206367 .