Hernias: Types + Treatments

Types of Hernias that Cause Bowel Obstructions

Common types of hernias that cause intestinal obstructions include inguinal hernias, femoral hernias, and incisional hernias. Hiatal hernias are another common type of hernia but occur in the upper digestive system.

This painful situation develops when excessive pressure is placed on the bowels to cause the primary tissue weakness. Multiple types of force can contribute to the development of this painful condition and its worsening.

For example, people who lift heavy objects may put undue strain on their abdomen that triggers a hernia. Typically, this type of lifting occurs in people who perform manual labor careers where heavy lifting is an essential task.

Other things that put pressure on your abdomen include diarrhea, constipation, or persistent coughing and sneezing. Poor nutrition or obesity may also have a link to causing hernias. These factors increase a person’s risk of developing hernias and, even worse, of suffering from problematic bowel obstructions.

Hernias Trigger Bowel Obstructions

The severity of this issue varies depending on the level of the hernia and the type of hernia that develops. 

Unfortunately, a bowel obstruction can cause a multitude of other health issues. In fact, some bowel obstructions may combine and become a potentially deadly set of problems. Seeking immediate care and attention from a doctor will help you minimize and prevent dangerous complications.

Symptoms of Bowel Obstructions

Often, these symptoms become sharper and more intense as the obstruction worsens.

In some cases, bowel obstruction may worsen and cause multiple complications. For example, issues such as dehydration could trigger electrolyte imbalances, punctures in the intestines, and even death of the surrounding tissue. This cavalcade of symptoms may cause long hospital stays, coma, and even death if left untreated.

Hernia Treatment Options

Severe bowel obstructions caused by hernias require a two-part treatment method. Early treatment methods for an obstruction include nasogastric tubes fed into the noose to remove fluids and gas. Doctors then wait and hope that the obstruction passes. Doctors may also perform treatments such as enemas or surgery to remove the obstruction or repair the hernia.

After the danger of the bowel or intestinal obstruction has passed, the patient needs hernia repair surgery. Depending on the location of the hernia there will be different treatment options. 

Types of Hernia Repair Surgery

This treatment option varies depending on the type of hernia and the severity of the injury. For example, open hernia repair requires opening up the body and pushing the hernia back into place. Laparoscopic hernia repair uses smaller incisions paired with a tube to insert repair tools carefully.
With new advances in technology, robotic laparoscopic surgery is now available here in Tennessee. These procedures are far less invasive than open surgery, allowing the patient to recover in less time.

Emergency Medical Care Helps

The dangers of hernias and bowel obstructions are too severe to ignore. Surgical repair is necessary if you want relief from the painful effects of intestinal obstruction.
If you or someone you love has a hernia or similar concerns, set up your appointment at The Surgical Clinic today. Our team will examine the issue and take steps to manage it quickly and efficiently.