Hernia Treatment

How is Hernia Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose hernias through a physical exam in most cases. If they suspect a hernia based on your symptoms, they may check the area around the intestines, the abdominal wall, and the groin for any noticeable bulging or swelling.

The hernia often becomes more noticeable when you stand up, strain the affected part or cough. In some cases, the hernia may not be noticeable, and a CT scan, MRI, or other soft-tissue imaging may be required for proper diagnosis.

How is Hernia Treated Based on Severity?

The following table describes the recommended treatment of hernia depending on disease severity:

Types of Hernia and Their Treatment

Here is an overview of common hernia types by location and their treatment options:

Surgical Treatments for Hernia

The different types of hernia surgery are as follows:

Other Treatments for Hernia

In some cases where surgery is not immediately required, doctors may recommend other approaches for hernia treatment. Most of the time, doctors suggest watchful waiting, wherein they monitor the condition through regular visits and check for any changes in symptoms.

For some inguinal and umbilical hernias, a hernia belt or truss may also be recommended. These external support devices temporarily hold the protruding tissue in place and can help ease pressure, discomfort, or bulging.

Oral Medications for Hernia Treatment

Medicines can not cure a hernia. However, doctors may prescribe them to temporarily manage hernia symptoms such as acid reflux, heartburn, or pain. Some oral medications suggested for hernia treatment include:

• Antacids: Help neutralise stomach acid and provide short-term relief from heartburn and acid reflux, particularly with hiatal hernias.

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Medicines such as omeprazole reduce stomach acid production and help control acid reflux symptoms.

• H2 Receptor Blockers: These reduce stomach acid and may be recommended for longer-lasting symptom relief.

• Pain Relief Medicines: May be prescribed to temporarily relieve pain or discomfort associated with a hernia.

Note: You should always follow your doctor's advice when receiving systemic treatment for a hernia. Blood tests or other methods may be required to verify your response.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatments for Hernia

Ayurvedic and other alternative therapies can help with digestion and reduce the pain from the hernia, but they will not fix the hernia itself. You need to go through hernia surgery to get it treated. Some helpful Ayurvedic suggestions for hernia surgery recovery include:

• Ayurvedic Procedures: Practices such as Snehana (massage using warm medicated oils), Virechana (purgation-based cleansing procedure), and Niruha Basti (herbal decoction enemas) can support digestion and intestinal health.

• Ayurvedic Medicines and Herbs: Triphala, Guggul, Gandhak Rasayana, Hingu, Kutaja, and Manjistha can support digestion.

• Yoga and Breathing Techniques: Gentle yoga, posture correction, and breathing exercises may help reduce discomfort and improve abdominal muscle tone.

Note: Alternative treatments should be practised under the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner.

Home Care for Managing Hernia

The following home care measures can help relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of the hernia getting worse:

• Avoid lifting heavy objects or bending suddenly.

• Take frequent breaks and avoid standing for long periods or coughing without supporting the affected area.

• Eat small but frequent meals to reduce pressure and discomfort.

• Do not lie down immediately after eating.

• Elevate the head of your bed while sleeping to manage reflux symptoms.

Latest Treatment for Hernia in India

Newer hernia treatments focus on minimally invasive surgical techniques and advanced technology to shorten recovery time. 3D mesh hernia repair uses specially designed mesh with minimal stitches. It can be performed under local anaesthesia in suitable cases, and may allow discharge within 24 hours. Robotic hernia surgery is another advanced option that uses robotic technology to provide greater precision during minimally invasive hernia repair.

How Long Does Hernia Treatment Take?

A simple hernia surgery usually takes a few minutes. However, if the surgery is complex, you might have to spend a few hours. An overview of the approximate duration for different hernia surgeries is given below:

The recovery from these hernia surgeries usually takes around 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the severity of your condition.

Hernia Treatment Side Effects

Hernia repair surgery is generally a safe procedure, but some patients may experience the following side effects:

• Bruising at the incision site.

• Groin pain.

• Difficulty in passing urine.

• Numbness or tingling sensations.

• Constipation or other bowel changes.

• Swelling or redness at the incision site.

• Weakness or fatigue.

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Hernia

The following lifestyle changes will help relieve symptoms of a hernia:

• Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put additional pressure on the abdominal wall.

• Avoid caffeine, spicy foods, tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolate, and alcohol.

• Quit smoking, as it weakens tissues, causes chronic coughing, and can make post-surgery recovery difficult.

• Do gentle exercises under the guidance of a professional trainer or physiotherapist to relieve discomfort.

• Stay hydrated to keep digestion healthy and bowel movements regular.

Triggers that Can Worsen Symptoms of Hernia

Here are some activities that can make hernia symptoms worse:

• Lifting heavy objects without proper posture

• Chronic coughing

• Constipation

• Tight clothing

• Smoking (as it may cause intense coughing)

• High-impact physical activity

Hernia Treatment Cost

The cost of hernia surgery can vary between ₹40,000 and ₹1.2 lakh in India. It varies based on the type of surgery performed, the hospital chosen, and the city of treatment. Other major treatment expenses include consultation charges (₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per visit), cost of blood tests (₹500 or more), CT scan charges (₹2,000 to ₹8,000) and MRI scan cost (₹2,000 to ₹17,000).

Does Health Insurance Cover Hernia Treatment in India?

Yes. Health insurance plans in India generally cover hernia treatment. The policy offers coverage for hernia surgery, including room rent, medication expenses, nursing charges, and diagnostic test costs, along with pre and post-hospitalisation expenses. The exact coverage may vary from one health plan to another.

However, coverage will be available only after a specified waiting period. If you are diagnosed with a hernia before purchasing the policy, it is classified as a pre-existing disease, and you have to complete a waiting period of up to 3 years. Some policies may also specify a sub-limit for hernia surgery expenses.

Since hernia may require expensive surgical procedures, it is recommended to have a medical coverage of at least ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh for adequate protection.