Illustration of hernia
The appearance of a lump in the abdominal or groin area is often considered a minor issue. In reality, this condition could be a sign of a hernia, which risks causing serious complications if left untreated.
In the early stages, a hernia often does not cause pain. Because of this, many sufferers choose to delay examination, hoping the lump will disappear on its own.
However, over time, a hernia can enlarge, trigger pain, and even lead to a medical emergency.
A general surgeon at Bethsaida Hospital Serang explained that a hernia occurs when an organ or body tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the muscle or supporting tissue.
“A hernia will not heal on its own. There is no medication, herbal remedy, or corset that can permanently return protruding tissue to its original position,” he said.
According to the doctor, surgery is the only permanent treatment for a hernia.
“The only complete and curative treatment is surgery. The sooner it is treated, the easier the process and the lower the risk,” he added.
There are several types of hernias, ranging from inguinal hernias, which are most common in men in the groin area, umbilical hernias around the navel, to hiatal hernias, which cause stomach acid to rise without a visible external lump.
Besides congenital factors, hernia risk also increases due to habits such as lifting heavy loads, obesity, chronic cough, prolonged constipation, and repeated pregnancies.
Symptoms to watch for typically include a lump that appears when standing, coughing, or straining, accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and pain in a specific area. For hiatal hernias, symptoms may include a burning sensation in the chest and acid reflux.
For treatment, Bethsaida Hospital Serang offers minimally invasive or laparoscopic surgery.
This method is performed through several small incisions with the help of a special camera, making the procedure more precise and allowing for faster recovery compared to open surgery.
“Laparoscopy is not just about smaller scars. More importantly, better visualization allows us to repair the hernia with greater precision, place the mesh more accurately, and ultimately provide better long-term results for the patient,” the doctor explained.
Meanwhile, the director of Bethsaida Hospital Serang noted that many patients are still afraid to undergo hernia surgery and therefore choose to delay treatment.
Therefore, Bethsaida Hospital Serang ensures that every patient receives a complete, comprehensive, and transparent explanation of their condition before deciding on the next steps.
“We are here not just as a place for treatment, but as a partner in the patient’s health journey,” he concluded.
