How Long Can You Wait to Have Hernia Surgery?

If you have an official hernia diagnosis, you may find yourself wondering if you really need to have surgery. Though you may or may not experience pain, discomfort, or pressure as you manage your basic and daily tasks, the one thing you should not do is overlook the importance of getting your hernia repaired. One thing you must understand about hernias is they rarely resolve on their own. Without timely treatment, your condition may cause additional complications that require emergency medical intervention that take the decision completely out of your hands. This guide addresses some common concerns that patients have about hernia surgery and whether it is a good idea to procrastinate on treatment.

The Importance of Hernia Treatment

The dangers of neglecting treatment for a hernia are real. Small herniation don’t always stay the same size. They gradually grow larger. Their symptoms become more obvious and harder to overlook. Eventually, serious complications may occur and when they do, you may not have sufficient time to consider alternative treatment options.

Does Hernia Type Matter?

The location of the hernia can affect the severity of the condition, its symptoms, and hernia treatment options. Herniation are identified according to their location in the body. The four main hernia types are:

Inguinal bulges occur more often in men than women. They develop in the groin area. In males, inguinal hernias develop when the organs, intestines, and other tissues protrude through a weak area or hole in the abdominal wall. If the bulge expands into the scrotum/testicular area, pain, pressure, cramping, and erectile dysfunction can occur. In females, inguinal hernias occur in the abdominal area and, in some cases, in the connective tissues along either side of the pubic bone that supports the uterus.

Indirect inguinal hernias are usually present at birth as a congenial birth defect. Direct groin/inguinal hernias are from abdominal weakness that develops gradually from injury or straining and are generally specific to men. They also become more common with age.

Umbilical hernias develop when fat, tissues, and organs from the abdominal cavity protrude through or near a weakness in the navel (belly button). This condition is often seen in babies and toddlers, but older children and adults develop it too. In most cases, pediatric umbilical hernias resolve on their own within a few years. Those that occur in adulthood often require medical intervention or surgery.

Femoral hernias are similar to inguinal bulges, but they appear much lower in the leg crease, where the thigh connects with the groin. This condition is rare and often develops when there’s inflammation. Women are more prone than men to this type of herniation due to differences in the pelvic structures. Extremely mild cases may be resolved by massaging the bulging tissues back into the abdomen.

Abdominal tissues and intestines that become entrapped (incarcerated) in the femoral cavity and those that become tangled in or obstructed by the hernia itself cause more pain, swelling, and discomfort upon movement. Young children who have certain comorbidities or underlying health concerns are susceptible to them. This specific type almost always requires immediate treatment or surgery because the risk of life-threatening complications is high.

Hiatal hernias develop when a portion of the stomach pushes its way through a weak spot in the diaphragm muscles and bulge through the chest area. This condition is common in women. It doesn’t usually present serious symptoms other than pain, cramps, acid reflux or GERD. The herniated portion of the stomach can slide in and out of the weakened diaphragm muscles and chest cavity repeatedly.

Because the symptoms of hernias affect everyone differently, it’s best to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Remember, men don’t always experience severe symptoms unless there’s a change in size or an increase in pain. Some patients take a wait and see approach while they contemplate their treatment options. Though the risk of life-threatening complications is rare, hernias can be fatal without timely surgical intervention. The benefits of surgery often outweigh the risks and conveniences of treatment delays.

Signs Surgery Is Necessary Sooner Than Later

There is no single factor that determines how long patients should wait to have hernia surgery. Everyone is different, and proper treatment involves seeing a hernia repair specialist. The following hernia complications indicate that surgery is necessary sooner than later.

• Strangulation
• Growing bulge
• Increase in pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever
• Redness or purplish color
• Increase in pressure
• Immobility

The most common hernias are inguinal or femoral. Women are advised to get a proper evaluation before deciding to delay hernia surgery or alternative treatments to prevent complications that are specific to their situations.

Reasons to Delay Hernia Surgery

Some patients may benefit from waiting to have hernia surgery if they are not experiencing symptoms that disrupt their daily activities or comfort. Also, the use of certain prescription medications, such as blood thinners, certain infections, poorly managed diabetes, ongoing health issues, and other medical concerns may lead to delays in surgical treatment. Anyone contemplating delaying hernia care should consult with a specialist first.

Risks of Delaying Hernia Treatment

In most cases, surgery is inevitable. Hernias grow over time and become worse. As they become larger, they further weaken the affected muscles and tissues. They can cause severe pain and distress. Many people with hernias eventually end up having surgery within a few years of diagnosis. Delays in treatment can lead to medical emergencies and even untimely death. Depending on the patient’s age, waiting too long can increase the risks of having hernia surgery, in addition to those associated with the hernia itself and the patient’s overall health.

Get Proactive About Hernia Repair

To make the best-informed decision regarding your health, look at the bigger picture. Think of the negative impact that having a hernia has on your life. Ask yourself if you’re tired of having to make excuses to your friends, loved ones, and colleagues because of the limitations and challenges it presents. What about those missed workdays and the expense of using home remedies to gain temporary relief? Stop letting false hope, misconceptions, and fear stop you from making a decision that can give you back the life, confidence, and comfort you desire.

Contact us for a consultation to discuss why hernia surgery may be the most optimal solution for your situation.