Hernias can be uncomfortable and painful, so it’s important to schedule your hernia repair in Houston as soon as possible. Additionally, untreated hernias can lead to more serious symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or fever. Therefore, it’s important to talk to a hernia surgeon in Houston if you have a hernia. Many hernias are unpreventable, however there are a few steps you can take to help reduce your risk of developing a hernia.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an internal organ pushes through the muscle wall or tissue that holds it in place. The groin and abdomen are common areas where hernias occur. There are several types of hernias, including:
- Inguinal hernias, which is where your bowel pushes through your lower abdomen and into your groin.
- Incisional hernias, which occur when tissue passes through a surgical incision that isn’t fully healed.
- Umbilical hernias, which happen when part of the bowel pushes through the abdomen near the belly button.
Hernias don’t go away on their own and require surgical hernia repair. Options for hernia repair in Houston depend on the type of hernia you have and your specific circumstances. Therefore, speak to your hernia specialist in Houston about which repair option is best for you.
Risk Factors of Hernias
There are a few risk factors that can increase the likelihood of hernia occurrence. Some of these include smoking, obesity, and chronic constipation. Oftentimes, too much pressure in your abdomen can cause a hernia to occur. Smoking can lead to chronic coughing, which can create the pressure needed to produce a hernia. These conditions can also be more likely if you are overweight due to the strain on the abdominal wall caused by extra body fat. Finally, chronic constipation can make you bear down during bowel movements and generate abdominal pressure. Each of these issues can create enough force to cause a hernia. If you have these risk factors, there are a few preventative measures you can take.
Preventative Measures
Unfortunately, many hernias are unpreventable, as there is little you can do about weakened muscle walls where hernias occur. However, there are a few things you can do to help lessen pressure that can result in a hernia. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating plenty of fiber, and avoiding heavy lifting are a few hernia preventative measures that may help lessen your chance of developing this condition.
While these things may help, hernias are often unpreventable and happen unexpectedly. At Texas Hernia Specialist, we offer many different options for your hernia repair in Houston. We are committed to quality care to help you feel better. Our hernia specialist in Houston, Dr. Rick Ngo, has the experience you want for your hernia repair. Call our office today at (713) 255-6363 to schedule an appointment with us. We are here to serve you.