Hernias can be more than a pain in the side.

If you experience a heavy feeling in your abdomen when you bend, pain when you lift heavy objects or a lump that enlarged when you strain and disappears when you lie down, it could be a hernia. Having it treated will not only ease your discomfort but will also prevent the hernia from damaging internal organs. At Alta Vista Regional Hospital, we provide surgical repair for several types of hernias, so don’t wait.

Hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. Hernia surgery is one of the most common procedures in the U.S., with more than one million hernia repairs performed each year in the U.S. Depending on its cause, a hernia can develop quickly or over a long period of time. Hernias are mostly found in the abdomen, but may also be in the upper thigh, belly button and groin areas.

Factors that may cause a hernia include being pregnant, being constipated, heavy weightlifting, fluid in the abdomen, sudden weight gain, persistent coughing or sneezing. If your hernia is growing larger or causing pain, your doctor may decide it is best to operate. Hernias can be repaired with either open or laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery uses a tiny camera and small surgical equipment to repair the hernia using only a few small incisions.

Patient results may vary. Consult your doctor about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.