For many people, summertime is often filled with physical activities of all kinds. You may travel with family, move into your next home or enjoy sports in the warm weather. No matter the agenda, it’s common for physical exertion to be higher during the warmer months.
Whether you’re playing a sport, moving heavy boxes or simply gardening during the summer, there’s a chance you could develop a hernia. Keep reading to hear from one of our experts, Huy Hoang, MD, on the causes of hernias, how to prevent them and when to seek medical help.
What Is a Hernia, and What Causes Them?
“Our abdominal walls are composed of tissue, skin, fat and muscle layers. Sometimes, part of our abdominal tissue or organs can push through an opening or weakness in the surrounding muscles, causing a hernia,” says Dr. Hoang.
“Hernias can be caused by preexisting weaknesses in the abdominal wall, pregnancy, chronic coughing or sneezing, increased pressure on your abdomen, straining bowel movements or vigorous physical activity,” says Dr. Hoang. It’s important to know that not all hernias cause pain. Someone can have a hernia and not know it.
How Summer Can Make Hernia Symptoms Worse
While the summer months provide time off from school for your little ones and family vacations, they also bring warm weather, which can increase your chances of developing a hernia. The heat itself can’t cause a hernia, but it can be the driving force for them to develop.
“The hotter temperatures cause us to sweat more and increase our chances of dehydration, which can lead to constipation. If you’re constipated, you’re more likely to cause a hernia by straining in the bathroom,” says Dr. Hoang.
It’s also common for physical activity to increase during the summer months. Whether you’re going for a run or lifting heavy weights, these activities put tension on your abdomen, which can result in a hernia. Dr. Hoang explains, “The hotter temperatures also increase the likelihood of internal inflammation, which can cause hernia symptoms to worsen.”
It's important to be aware of the signs of a hernia, especially if you’re engaging in physical activity during the summer, so that you can seek medical help immediately.
Signs That You May Have a Hernia
Although some hernias may cause little to no pain, there are warning signs to look for. Common signs of a hernia include:
- Nausea, vomiting or digestive issues: If your hernia is the result of protruding intestines, you may experience nausea, vomiting or constipation, which indicates a strangulated hernia.
- A noticeable bulge or lump: The most common sign of a hernia is a bulge or lump, typically in the groin area. The bulge might appear when you’re standing, straining or coughing.
- Pain or discomfort: While not all hernias cause pain, there certainly are cases where they do. Most people notice hernia pain, pressure or discomfort when lifting heavy objects, bending or coughing.
- Pulling or dragging sensation: You might experience a pulling or dragging sensation in the affected area that can come and go throughout the day.
- Weakness and fatigue: You may feel weak in the abdomen or groin area, making daily activities like walking or exercising more difficult.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect it might be a hernia, contact your primary care provider.
Treating Your Hernia
“Hernias don’t heal on their own — they often get worse over time if they aren’t treated,” says Dr. Hoang. Diagnosing them early is important so you can receive the medical care you need and prevent them from worsening.
“To treat hernias, we typically suggest surgery,” says Dr. Hoang. “Hernia repair surgery is generally minimally invasive with little risk.” Your surgeon will reposition the herniated tissue or organ back to its original placement and reinforce it with stitches or a surgical mesh.
Dr. Hoang provides robotic-assisted hernia repair surgeries for his patients. This minimally invasive procedure offers many benefits, including smaller incisions, less scarring, reduced pain, faster recoveries, shorter hospitalization time and lower risk of infection.
How to Prevent Hernias
Ways to prevent hernias include:
- Avoiding heavy lifting and rigorous exercise
- Eating light and nutritious meals
- Listening to your body for signs
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Preventing constipation
- Remaining properly hydrated
- Staying cool and resting when needed
“When it comes to hernias, prevention is your best course of action,” says Dr. Hoang. “It’s possible to avoid a hernia, but if you develop one, it’s best to see your doctor immediately.”
Helping You Experience Less Pain and More Joy
At AdventHealth, we seek to care for your body, mind and spirit. If you’re experiencing a hernia, know that you aren’t alone. Our expert providers offer world-class care to help you heal and get back to the life you love.
Visit us here to request an appointment with Dr. Hoang or learn more about our hernia care services. You deserve to feel whole.
