Q.

How do I know if I have a hernia?

A.   Some hernias are present at birth; others develop slowly over a period of months or years. Hernias can also suddenly occur. Experiencing an unusual or painful bulge in the affected area is the most commonly reported symptom.

Some patients also report discomfort in the abdomen and swelling in the groin that worsens with activity. It should be noted that you could have more subtle symptoms as well — including dull aches and pains. I can often diagnose a hernia in my clinic office, though sometimes we need a computed tomography (CT) scan to confirm.

Q.

Who can treat my hernia?

A.   As a general surgeon, I specialize in repairing hernias surgically. Hernia surgery is often relatively low risk. For many patients, it can often be performed laparoscopically, which typically means you recover faster and get back to your life sooner. Many hernias require the placement of mesh in order to reinforce the weakness in the abdominal wall, which lessons the chance for the hernia to come back.

Q.

Is there anything I can do to prevent a hernia?

A.   One of the most powerful ways you can lower your risk is simply by maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight adds pressure to your abdominal area, which can create a hernia or make an existing one worse. Also you can stop smoking as chronic coughing from smoking increases your abdominal pressure. However, I believe much of it has to do with genetics, which is something that you just cannot change.

Dr. Claffey is a member of the medical staff at Heartland Regional Medical Center. Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.