A hernia is defined as a protrusion of body tissue that occurs when there is a break or tear in the wall cavity containing it. As is the case with many other uncommon conditions, a hernia can be life threatening and often requires an extensive medical intervention. Notoriously painful, relief can be attained through use of hernia support. Although hernias can be found in various areas on the body, they are most commonly located in the abdomen and groin areas. Less commonly, they can be located in the brain, back, or even neck. Hernia is the medical term used to describe a rupture or tear in the body. There are five common types of hernias: femoral, hiatal, incisional, inguinal, and umbilical.
How Common Are Hernias
Hernias are more common than most people would imagine. I'm sure that even those who have been afflicted will agree that it isn't the most delightful subject to discuss. That may be why it usually comes as a surprise to find out that 1 out of every 4 men will experience a hernia at some point in their lives. One reason is because men participate in more strenuous activities than women, such as heavy lifting. Because hernias often occur in the groin, their anatomical structure also puts them at greater risk. Women carry a much lower risk of being affected. However, that does not mean they are in the clear. Femoral hernias much more common in women than men. Being in good shape doesn't necessarily prevent a hernia related injury. In fact, some hernias can even arise from something gone wrong during a workout.
Symptoms of a Hernia
Because there are several different types of hernias, the symptoms for each person can vary. A hernia can be unnoticeable for months or years. Because it is not self healing, it will gradually worsen over time. The most common early symptom is a lump or bulge in the affected area. A worsening hernia may be accompanied with pain when doing otherwise normal activities. An existing hernia can become aggravated by coughing, sneezing, or straining when using the bathroom. One constant symptom of an exacerbated hernia will be pressurized pain. That pain will usually be coupled with bulging or protruding tissue.
How to Identify the Type of Hernia
If you under clinical care, a hernia can usually be visually identified. The physician may request that you cough or strain while standing, as these will usually cause the herniated area to protrude. In cases where there is no physical evidence of a hernia, a cat scan may be used to diagnose the condition. The exact diagnosis applied will depend on where the hernia is located in the body.
Femoral and Inguinal Hernias
Femoral and Inguinal hernias occur in the groin, with femoral occurring more often in females and inguinal in males. Femoral hernias develop when tissue pushes through the wall of the femoral canal. They are usually visible where the upper thigh and groin meet. Similarly, inguinal hernias develop when tissue pushes through the wall of the inguinal canal. Hernias in the groin area generally sensitive and painful.
Umbilical Hernias
Umbilical hernias occur most often in infants. They can be visually identified by a bulge near the navel when the child cries. An umbilical hernia is the only type that may resolve on its own. Doctors usually recommend watching the child carefully for any abnormal changes and allowing up to two years for the defect to heal. If the hernia does not heal with the child's first few years, surgery will normally be required.
Hiatus Hernias
Hiatus hernias develop when tissue pushes through the muscle wall in the abdomen. Problems can range from a painless bulge to symptoms usually found in ulcer patients. Symptoms can include trouble swallowing, pain, fatigue, and heartburn.
Incisional Hernias
An incisional hernia can develop when a wound doesn't heal correctly after surgery. To prevent incisional hernias, patients are instructed to avoid straining and to use caution when coughing or sneezing. Much like other types, symptoms of an incisional hernia may include constant pain, burning, and pressurized pain.
When to Use Hernia Support
If you have a hernia, you will likely see huge benefits from the use of external hernia supports. Support options are based on the type of hernia you have. In any case, the brace or truss may relieve discomfort, hold the affected tissue in place, and prevent a bulging hernia from being noticed outside of your clothing. Hernia support options are designed for temporary use. Extended wear could cause damage to your body tissue and internal organs. It is important to remember that hernias in adults do not heal on their own. They should not be viewed as long term solutions.
What Hernia Support Options Are Available
The type of brace you will benefit most from depends on the type of hernia you have.
Groin Truss
Groin truss is used for femoral and inguinal hernias located in the groin area. You will step into the truss and adjust it to fit snug around your groin and lower abdomen. There are trusses made for either side of your body, ensuring you maximize its use by properly supporting the affected area.
Abdominal Brace
Abdominal braces are used for hiatal, incisional, and sometimes umbilical hernias. They deliver comfortable support to anyone suffering from an abdominal hernia. An abdominal brace generally wraps around the waist and comes together around the abdomen to create adjustable support.
Umbilical Brace
An umbilical truss is used to support those with umbilical hernias. Similar to the abdominal brace, it wraps around the waist and provides support around the belly button. They are usually more narrow than abdominal braces, lending support directly to the umbilical area.
What's the Different Between Hernia Support and a Hernia Mesh In most cases, a hernia support brace or truss is used to relieve pressurized pain prior to surgery. On the other hand, a hernia mesh is surgically inserted during a hernia operation. It is used to provide additional support to damaged tissue. It is designed to stay in place and degrade over time.
