Hernias are a bulge caused by tissue pushing through the wall of weakened muscles holding them. They may or may not be painful. However, there are a lot of misconceptions that stop most people suffering from hernia to seek a doctor’s help. Let's debunk some of the top myths.

Busting Top Myths Surrounding Hernias

Myth 1: Hernias only happen to men

Fact: Women are also prone to hernia, especially post-childbirth. Experts state that 2% to 5% of women are prone to suffer from a hernia at some point in their lives.

Myth 2: Hernias will go away on their own

Fact: Hernias don’t go away on their own as they require treatment. Moreover, big-sized hernias may need surgical intervention to prevent severe complications.

Myth 3: The treatment of hernia is only weight loss

Fact: Weight loss may only help in shrinking the size of the hernia. However, a hernia may need open or laparoscopic surgery to go away completely.

Myth 4: Living with a hernia problem is painful

Fact: People can live with a hernia condition for many years if it doesn’t cause any pain. However, doctors would certainly recommend surgery if the hernia grows big.

Myth 5: You can push your hernia back

Fact: No, one cannot push the hernia back by oneself and should not try to do the same. It is advisable to take expert consultation from a doctor or surgeon to push the hernia back.

Myth 6: Hernia only affects obese people

Fact: Hernia can happen to anyone irrespective of any gender or age. Especially people who are into weight lifting or indulge in activities that put the lower abdomen under stress regularly are prone to hernias.

Myth 7: Hernias are not a serious medical condition

Fact: Few types of hernias such as strangulated inguinal hernias can be serious and require immediate hospitalisation. This occurs when the blood flow to an intestine gets hampered due to a hernia.

Myth 8: One can delay hernia surgery for many years

Fact: Only a doctor or surgeon can determine whether you can delay the surgery depending on your present condition, severity and size of the hernia.

Myth 9: Laparoscopy surgery of hernia is a painful procedure

Fact: Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes hernia with less pain and quick recovery.

Myth 10: Children are not prone to having a hernia

Fact: False. Not only children but even newborns can have an inguinal hernia. You are recommended to consult a neonatologist if you suspect a hernia in your newborn.

If you experience symptoms of a hernia, do not delay and seek help from an expert.

Consult the Best Hernia Specialist