Can the Monsoon Trigger Hernia Pain? Causes and Prevention Tips

While the monsoon season provides welcomed cool winds and a nice break from the heat of the summer, it can also bring some unexpected discomfort to someone suffering from a hernia, since many patients report an increase in hernia pain during the rainy season, which led them to wonder if weather changes can really affect their condition.

We will take a look at the connection between monsoon hernia pain, the reasons behind it, and some of the best practices to avoid discomfort during that time.

How Weather Can Affect Hernia Pain

A hernia occurs when an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the adjacent muscle or tissue wall. The most common types of hernias are inguinal (groin), umbilical (navel), and incisional (post-surgery) hernias. Usually the symptoms of hernias are mild swelling, discomfort, or mild pain, especially when lifting, coughing, or standing for long periods of time.

During the rainy season, a few environmental factors that may worsen these symptoms are as follows:

• Temperature and humidity changes: During the rainy season, sudden temperature drops in addition to higher humidity can create muscle contraction or stiffness that increases tension around the herniated area.
• Decreased physical activity: Many choose to stay indoors during the rainy season leading to less activity and an increase in weight gain. Increased weight gain also adds pressure to abdominal muscles related to hernias.
• Coughs and colds: The rainy season usually brings an increase in respiratory illnesses. Persistent coughing will increase any pressure and tension experienced in the abdomen, resulting in increased bulging and pain related to the hernia.
• Digestive disturbance: The rainy season usually includes acidity/bloating/constipation due to changes in eating times, or food that may be spoiled. Digestive problems can add pressure to the abdominal muscles and worsen hernia symptoms.So yes, while the weather does not “cause” a hernia it can absolutely heighten some pain and discomfort for someone who already has one. 

Some Common Reasons for Hernia Discomfort Related to the Monsoons

1. Weak Muscles Responding to Cold Weather- As the temperature falls, the muscles around your abdomen may contract. For a person with a hernia, that contraction puts more tension on the weak area, and can lead to pain or swelling. 

2. Coughing and Sneezing- This time of year is filled with colds, flu, and bronchitis during the monsoon season. This constant coughing exerts repetitive pressure on the abdominal wall that can cause the hernia sac to enlarge (or pull inside), and/or increases pain around the hernia. 

3. Digestive Issues and Constipation- Indigestion and stools that are not regular is common in this season. When you are straining or bearing down for hard stools, you change the internal pressure of your tummy, which will aggravate the hernia or allow the hernia to protrude farther (or both). 

4. Water Retention and Inflammation- Humidity sometimes causes mild water retention in the body, which can lead to belly bloating and heaviness. The bloating will aggravate the sensation of pulling or gliding pain at the hernia site. 

5. No Medical Care Regularly- Long trips to the doctor (especially by public transport) are thoughts that are negligible for many people during the monsoon. If you are not relaxing because you are too busy or because an annoying symptom does not seem too important to you, it may be better to have had someone check it. The hernia may become larger, or even more painful, after a missed appointment. 

Prevention and Self Care Instructions for a person suffering hernia pain during the rainy season. 

While the rainy season can make it hard to forget the hernia, some small changes in your lifestyle can keep the pain at bay and prolong complications: 

1. Keep a Balanced Diet- The best thing is to eat foods that are easily digestible:    this includes cooked vegetables, soups, or steamed creations.1. Don't Eat Oily or Spicy Foods that May Cause Acidity or Constipation. 

You can include fiber-rich foods like oats, green leafy vegetables, and fruits in your diet for a smoother bowel movement and reduced pressure against the abdominal wall. 

2. Drink Water Regularly 

Dehydration can sneak up on you when it rains. If possible, drink bottled, clean, boiled, or filtered water. Staying hydrated helps keep digestion smooth and enables your muscles to stay more flexible. 

3. Don't Lift Heavy Objects 

Heavy lifting or intense exercise is bad for you. Use correct posture and don't spring any movements, to avoid putting strain on your abdomen. 

4. Stop Coughs and Colds from Getting Worse 

If you have a cough or cold, treat it immediately. Ignoring it can only cause further strain on your abdomen and also increase the pain. Inhale steam, recommended cough medicine dosage, and try not to expose yourself to wet weather for long periods. 

5. Don't Gain Weight 

It is common to gain weight in the monsoon season as people eat comfort food and move less. Unfortunately, the bigger you are, the more intra-abdominal pressure you have to adjust to the lump or bulge of the hernia. It is advised that you go for a gentle walk or stretch, or even do some light yoga to maintain muscle tone. 

6. Wear Comfortable Clothes 

Avoid tight belts or waistbands that press directly on or against the hernia site. Loose clothing and breathable fabrics allow for ease of movement and proper blood circulation. 

7. Sleep Comfortable 

Sleeping flat on your back can push your stomach contents against the hernia. It is a more comfortable sleep position to sleep elevated, or on your side. Elevated sleeping helps reduce discomfort and aids digestion while sleeping.8. Do Not Bypass Sustained Pain

If you are encountering sudden, severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or inability to reduce the hernia, you could be experiencing a strangulation; this is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgery.

When to See a Doctor

If you have a diagnosis of hernia, please don't be negligent during seasonal changes and visit your doctor if you have persistent or increasing discomfort during the rain. Persistent or increasing discomfort during the rainy season may mean:

• The hernia is getting bigger.
• There is inflammation or stuck tissue.
• Trouble such as obstruction or strangulation is developing.

A hernia never goes away without surgery. Surgery is the definitive treatment; however, early consultation and prevention can help relieve pain and prevent urgent emergencies.

A doctor may recommend lifestyle modifications, supportive belts (for temporary relief), or laparoscopic hernia repair for a safe and minimally invasive procedure that has a rapid recovery at progressive hospitals.

Living Comfortably with a Hernia in the Rainy Season

You can certainly still enjoy the rainy season if you are careful and mindful of your condition. Making simple alterations in eating clean food, early managing coughs, and keeping active while indoors can be the difference. Keep a diary of symptoms if the pain escalates, as this will help your doctor on your assessment of how the hernia is changing.

In any case, delaying on treatment can cause unnecessary suffering. A hernia pain that seems mild today can turn into troublesome complications tomorrow. Consistently following up with a professional will ensure that your condition is managed in a safe and preventative manner.

Winter hernia pain should not be simply disregarded as seasonal issues. Yes, changes in weather may be temporary relief, but your hernia requires treatment and care.

At GEM Hospital, our surgeons are optimization in advanced laparoscopic hernia repairs and post-operative care. We provide a diagnosis, pain management and long-term solutions for pain relief for all hernia type of conditions.

Stay safe this winter season. Book your appointment at GEM Hospital and take the first step immediately in your journey to a pain relief and healthy life!