Hernia: Types, Symptoms & Latest Mesh Repairs
A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle wall.
It often appears as a bulge that becomes more noticeable while coughing, lifting, or standing.
Hernias do not heal on their own.
They gradually enlarge and can lead to dangerous complications if not treated on time. Modern mesh repair techniques make hernia surgery safer, stronger, and quicker than ever.
This blog explains the types of hernias, symptoms to watch for, and the most advanced treatment options available today.
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia develops when muscle or tissue walls weaken, allowing fat or organs (usually the intestine) to protrude through.
Common causes include:
- Heavy lifting
- Chronic cough
- Constipation
- Obesity
- Previous surgery
- Aging
- Pregnancy
- Genetic muscle weakness
Immediate evaluation is recommended when symptoms arise, as hernias worsen with time.
Most Common Types of Hernias
1. Inguinal Hernia (Groin Hernia)
- Most common type
- Seen in both men and women
- Bulge in the groin area
- Pain increases with walking, lifting, or bending
2. Umbilical Hernia
- Occurs near the belly button
- Common after pregnancy or due to obesity
3. Incisional Hernia
- Develops at the site of a previous surgery scar
- Often due to poor healing or infection
4. Femoral Hernia
- Found below the groin
- More common in women
- Higher risk of complications
5. Hiatal Hernia
- Part of the stomach pushes into the chest through the diaphragm
- Causes acid reflux, chest burning, and bloating
6. Epigastric Hernia
- Occurs in upper abdomen between the chest and navel
- Usually contains fat tissue
Symptoms of a Hernia
- Visible swelling or bulge
- Pain or discomfort, especially while lifting
- Heaviness in abdomen
- Burning or aching sensation
- Vomiting (in severe cases)
- Pain that worsens by evening
- Constipation or difficulty passing stools (sometimes)
Danger Signs – When Hernia Becomes an Emergency
Seek urgent medical attention if you notice:
- Sudden severe pain
- Redness or hardness over the bulge
- Inability to push the hernia back in
- Persistent vomiting
- Fever
These may indicate strangulation, where blood supply to the intestine is blocked — a life-threatening condition requiring immediate surgery.
Diagnosis
A surgeon may recommend:
- Physical examination
- Ultrasound
- CT scan (for complex or hidden hernias)
Latest & Most Effective Treatment: Mesh Repair Surgery
Hernias do not improve with exercise or medication.
The only permanent solution is surgery, and mesh repair is the globally accepted gold standard.
Types of Hernia Repair Surgeries
1. Laparoscopic Mesh Repair (Modern & Minimally Invasive)
- 3 small keyhole incisions
- Faster recovery
- Less pain
- Minimal scarring
- Lower infection risk
- Short hospital stay
Best for inguinal, umbilical, femoral, and incisional hernias.
2. Open Mesh Repair
- A single incision made directly over the hernia
- Mesh placed to strengthen the abdominal wall
- Suitable for large or complex hernias
3. Robotic Hernia Repair
- Enhanced precision
- Faster healing
- Reduced pain
Available at advanced surgical centres.
What Is Mesh & Why Is It Important?
A surgical mesh is a flexible, medical-grade material placed over the weak muscle area to provide reinforcement.
Benefits of Mesh Repair
- Strong and long-lasting support
- Very low recurrence rate
- Quick recovery
- Allows normal activities sooner
- Safe and globally recommended
Recovery After Hernia Surgery
- Most patients go home within 24 hours
- Light activities after 3–5 days
- Complete recovery in 2–3 weeks
- Avoid heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks
- Follow a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Can Hernia Be Prevented?
You can reduce the risk by:
- Avoiding heavy lifting
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Treating chronic cough or constipation
- Strengthening core muscles
- Eating a high-fiber diet
When to See a Specialist?
If you notice any bulge, pain, or heaviness in the abdomen or groin, consult a surgeon promptly.
Early treatment avoids complications and ensures faster recovery.
Dr. Ankur Bhanushali specializes in laparoscopic and modern mesh hernia repairs, providing safe, painless, and advanced surgical care.
📍 Contact Details (FULL & UNCHANGED — EXACT COPY)
🏥 Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic
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🏥 Aayush Multispecialty Hospital
👨⚕️ Dr. Ankur Bhanushali – General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
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