Can Constipation Cause Hernias?

Constipation is a health condition that can cause several uncomfortable symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and difficulty passing stools. It can also lead to hernias.

If you frequently experience constipation, it’s important to understand the relationship between constipation and hernias. Keep reading for insight into the correlation between the two conditions, what symptoms to look for, and when to consider hernia surgery in Orange County.

Understanding the Link Between Constipation and Hernias

Constipation is typically characterized by infrequent bowel movements or trouble passing stool three or fewer times a week. Millions of individuals experience frequent constipation, making it one of the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal issues every year. Constipation is often the result of a low-fiber diet, dehydration, insufficient exercise, certain medications, or certain health conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Hernias related to constipation occur from the increased pressure placed on the abdominal muscles while attempting to pass stool. As the muscles in the stomach area weaken, the abdominal contents bulge through the weakened abdominal wall.

Types of Hernias

There are several different types of hernias, but the most common types to occur as a result of constipation are:

• Inguinal Hernias: An inguinal hernia occurs when abdominal tissue protrudes through the lower abdominal wall and into a person’s groin. 
• Umbilical Hernias: Umbilical hernias occur when a person’s intestines begin to push through an opening in the abdominal muscles by their belly button.
• Hiatal Hernias: This type of hernia occurs when part of a person’s stomach protrudes into their chest.

It’s important to note that hernias can only be repaired through surgical intervention. If you suspect you have a hernia, contact Orange County Robotic General Surgery to discuss options for hernia surgery in Orange County.

Symptom Overlap

Some of the most common symptoms of constipation are dry or hard fecal matter, difficulty passing stools, abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and feeling like you can’t completely empty stool from your rectum.

Symptoms of hernias can vary depending on the specific type. Still, some hallmark symptoms include discomfort or pain in the groin or abdomen, pain when coughing, breathing, or exercising, and a noticeable bulge at the hernia site. It’s important to recognize that there can be some overlap in symptoms between these two conditions, so while someone may think they are just experiencing abdominal pain as a result of constipation, they could potentially be dealing with a hernia at the same time.

Hernia and Constipation Management Strategies

One of the most effective ways to treat constipation and prevent hernias is to increase your fiber intake. Foods rich in fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, can help alleviate constipation by increasing bowel movements and softening the consistency of stool. Staying adequately hydrated also helps soften the stool, which reduces the likelihood of becoming constipated.

Regular exercise is also highly effective. Exercising stimulates intestinal contractions, helping to move stool through the digestive tract. By implementing these dietary changes and lifestyle modifications, people with constipation can relieve their uncomfortable symptoms while simultaneously preventing the development of hernias.

Importance of Seeking Medical Evaluation

Even though constipation is a very common health condition, people should always seek out a proper medical diagnosis if they suspect they are constipated. Aside from hernias, constipation can lead to other issues that can seriously impact a person’s health, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal prolapse, and fecal impaction if left untreated, which is why it’s always important to seek out care for your symptoms.

Additionally, constipation could itself be a symptom of a more serious health problem, like colorectal cancer. If you notice a change in your bowel habits, avoid self-diagnosing and schedule time with a healthcare professional to understand why you may be constipated in the first place.

Surgical Considerations 

In most cases, hernias do not go away on their own. Thus, the most effective way to treat a hernia that occurs from constipation is surgery. The most common types of hernia repair surgery in Orange County include:

Open Surgery: During open hernia surgery in Orange County, a surgeon will make an incision directly over the site of the hernia so they can put the tissue back into place and repair the abdominal wall with surgical mesh or stitches. While this approach is more invasive, it allows the surgeon to directly see the hernia and the tissues surrounding it. This type of hernia repair surgery in Orange County is typically used on larger hernias.

Laparoscopic Surgery: This is a minimally invasive form of hernia repair surgery in Orange County. With this method, a surgeon will make a small incision in the abdomen. They’ll then insert a tiny camera, called a laparoscopy, which will help them visualize the hernia and the area around it so they can perform the surgery. Laparoscopic surgery typically has less postoperative pain and downtime than open surgery.

Robotic Surgery: Robotic hernia surgery in Orange County is another minimally invasive approach where a surgeon uses robotic-assisted technology to perform the operation. Similarly to laparoscopic, a small incision is made at the site of the hernia. The surgeon then uses robotic arms to perform the repair.

Long-Term Management

Constipation is a chronic condition for many people, so it’s important to have strategies set in place to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. For those who do experience frequent constipation, keeping track of their bowel habits is a helpful place to start. The average healthy person has a bowel movement three times a week, so if you notice you are defecating less frequently, it may be time to implement more fiber into your diet, drink more water, and increase your exercise. Again, always consult with a healthcare professional if you begin to notice changes in your bowel habits.

Key Takeaways

Constipation can lead to hernias due to the strain it puts on the abdominal wall. It’s important to seek medical attention not just to alleviate discomfort but also to reduce the risk of hernias and other potential health complications.

If you’re experiencing persistent constipation or suspect you have a hernia, don’t hesitate to contact us at Orange County Robotic General Surgery. Dr. Abtin Khosravi, MD, and our team specialize in robotic hernia repair surgery in Orange County and can provide the personalized care you need to give you relief from your symptoms.