HERNIA |
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General Information
DEFINITION--Protrusion of an internal organ through a weakness or abnormal opening in the muscle around it. The most common types that affect athletes include: inguinal hernia (more common in males); incisional hernia; femoral hernia (more common in females); umbilical hernia (more common in children). Athletic performance will be impaired until the hernia is repaired.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMSOne of the following:
A lump in the groin or umbilical area that usually returns to its normal position with gentle pressure or by lying down.
A protrusion at the site of previous surgery.
Scrotal swelling, with or without pain.
Fullness or swelling in lips of the vagina. All types of hernias can cause mild discomfort or pain at the site of the lump, particularly with exercise or competitive sports.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORSWeakness in connective tissue or a muscle wall. This may be present at birth or acquired later in life. In athletes, hernias are usually associated with straining. Weight-lifters are especially susceptible. In the general population, premature infants, obese persons and pregnant women are most vulnerable to hernias.
HOW TO PREVENTA weak area may not herniate until it ruptures with heavy lifting or straining. Don't strain when having bowel movements. Don't use weight-lifting equipment until the hernia has been repaired surgically. If you must lift something, lift properly. Bend your knees, lift the object and rise using your leg muscles. Keep the object close to your body. Don't bend from the waist and lift. Prevent complications by having surgery to repair the hernia.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory blood studies.
X-rays of the abdomen.
SURGERYNecessary to repair the opening caused by weakened muscle or connective tissue.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSUmbilical hernias usually heal spontaneously by age 4 and rarely require surgery. Other hernias can be repaired with surgery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSIf the hernia becomes strangulated (loses its blood supply), it may cause severe illness (intestinal obstruction, fever, severe pain and shock).
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTNecessary for diagnosis and surgery.
HOME TREATMENT
Whenever you lie down prior to surgery, push your hernia gently into place if it protrudes visibly.
Don't wear a hernia truss. It injures or weakens tissues, making surgery difficult or impossible.
Don't strain to have bowel movements.
MEDICATIONFor minor discomfort, you may use non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen.
ACTIVITY
Avoid heavy lifting -- either before or after surgery.
DIETEat a high-fiber diet and increase fluid intake to prevent constipation and straining with bowel movements.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of a hernia. If you have fever or severe pain, call immediately!
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