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Hernias are a rather frequent health problem that might remain asymptomatic for a long time before manifesting themselves with definite symptoms. The tutorial also educates the patient about how to check for signs of a hernia by means of self-examination so that the condition could be detected in its early stages in case it is necessary. This article will give a detailed description on how to do hernia self-check, the drawbacks of this check and the need to seek medical advice.
A hernia is a condition that arises when an organ or tissue protrudes through a hole in the muscle or other tissue that normally contains it. This condition may cause lumps, swelling or pain particularly when one is physically active.
The most common types of hernias include:
Hernias may produce swellings or lumps at the site of the hernia which may get enlarged in standing position, while bending or even while coughing. Some of the signs include; discomfort, fullness, or pain especially when in motion.
Palpation for hernias is a good method in identifying the abnormal signs, but it is important to adhere to some certain procedures in order to get the right results. Here’s how you can perform a basic self-examination:
However, self- examination is not a full substitute for a medical consultation. Any lump, pain or any other abnormal feeling should be taken to the doctor for check up.
However, a self-examination is not without its drawbacks though it can give the first impetus. Not all hernias are observable through self examination and symptoms may depend with type of hernia and the general health status of the affected person. There are types of hernias that are asymptomatic, for example small hiatal hernias that are discovered incidentally on X-ray or endoscopy.
Also, the manifestation of hernia may be similar to those of other diseases and health conditions. For example, the abdominal pain could be of the gastrointestinal origin rather than a hernia, and a visible lump could be due to other soft tissue pathology. For this reason, self-examination should be viewed as an initial phase of the assessment rather than as a diagnostic exercise.
The other drawback is that a hernia may be either over or underestimated in terms of its severity. While some may be worried by a simple lump, others may consider a hernia that needs surgery as nothing serious. Diagnosis and treatment should be conducted by professionals and therefore the information provided should be correct.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice:
Hernia should be treated early enough so that symptoms can be controlled and complications prevented. Physicians may perform some routine clinical assessments or refer a patient to have an X-ray or some other imaging test to get a clearer picture of the condition.
It is important for everyone to get checked up once in a while but it is more important for those who are likely to develop hernias. It includes lifting heavy objects, chronic cough, obesity, and past surgeries on the abdomen. Hernias can be diagnosed during routine checkups and this will be in the early stages before the symptoms manifest.
General practitioners and surgeons can follow any small hernias and advise the patient on the most appropriate management: dietary and lifestyle changes, regular check-ups or repairs. This also makes it possible to have more treatment procedures and in case of a surgery, then it might be less complicated and less aggressive.
Hernia self-checking is helpful in the first instance to give you an idea of the hernia signs and make you more conscious of your body condition. But, it should be noted that breast self-examination is not a method for diagnosis of breast cancer. In case of any continuous pain or any lump that does not disappear, it is recommended that one sees a doctor for medical examination.
In case you think that you may be suffering from a hernia, you are encouraged to visit GEM Hospital and consult our specialists. We have a team of professionals who will give you a detailed assessment and recommend appropriate therapies that will give you comfort and a healthy state. Don’t wait until it is too late, book your appointment today to take that first step towards proper hernia treatment.
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