HERNIA Facts
What causes a hernia?
In the simplest terms, hernias occur from a combination of internal pressure (like from straining) and a weakness/opening in the muscle or fascia of the abdomen.
Hernias are often complicated by a variety of factors which may include any combination of the following:
- Smoking
- Previous surgery
- Diabetes
- Immune response
- Obesity
- Strenuous exercise such as heavy lifting
- Constipation
- Age
- Weight
- Genetics
- Congenital – occurs at birth
What can be mistaken for a hernia?
Statistics estimate that 15 out every 1000 people in the US will be diagnosed with a hernia,3 and over 1 million are surgically repaired each year.4 While relatively common there remains a chance a healthcare provider may fail to diagnosis the hernia as the following conditions can mimic the symptoms:
- GERD – gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Diastasis recti – separation of abdominal muscles, which in some cases can be repaired without surgery
- Athletic pubalgia – also known as a sports hernia
- Women's health conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or fibroids can cause pelvic pain
Diagnosing a Hernia
Hernias can only be diagnosed by a licensed healthcare provider during a visual inspection and a physical exam. Males are probably familiar with the phrase “turn and cough.”
Next your provider will order imaging such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to confirm the diagnosis.
Can a hernia be diagnosed via telehealth? Not exactly, but there are healthcare providers who offer telehealth visits and can work with you on a diagnosis game plan. If you are interested in exploring hernia specialists outside your community, visit our surgeon finder for more information.
