Hernias are a common occurrence, but unfortunately, they cannot heal on their own. In fact, if left untreated, hernias usually get bigger and more painful, and can even lead to serious health risks in some cases.
The Problem with Hernias
An abdominal wall hernia occurs when a weakened area in the abdominal wall allows a part of the intestine or other tissue to protrude through. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as aging, pregnancy, or previous surgery. While some hernias may not cause any immediate symptoms, they can still pose a significant health risk if left unaddressed.
The Dangers of Untreated Hernias
If the wall through which the intestine is protruding does not close shut, it can cause a strangulated hernia. This is a serious condition where the protruding tissue becomes trapped and cut off from its blood supply, leading to potentially life-threatening complications. Strangulated hernias require immediate medical attention and often require emergency surgery to prevent further complications.
Treating Hernias
The only effective way to treat a hernia is through surgical repair. This typically involves pushing the protruding tissue back into the abdominal cavity and reinforcing the weakened area, either with stitches or a mesh material. While the recovery time can vary, most hernia surgeries are minimally invasive and allow for a relatively quick return to normal activities.