Don't Let a Hernia Ruin Your Holiday: A Guide to Treatment

Hernia symptoms often worsen during the busy holiday season. Lifting luggage, long travel days, or even coughing from a cold can increase discomfort and limit your enjoyment.

At Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, in Jackson, Mississippi, we want you to know that hernias are highly treatable. Addressing them early can help you stay healthy and active through the holidays and beyond.

Understanding hernias

A hernia occurs when tissue, often part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or surrounding muscle. 

Hernias can present in different ways. Common types include:

• Inguinal hernia: in the groin area (most common in men)
• Umbilical hernia: near the belly button
• Hiatal hernia: where part of the stomach pushes into the chest cavity
• Incisional hernia: at the site of a previous surgical incision

While some hernias cause only mild discomfort, others can lead to serious complications if left untreated. A hernia can cause severe pain, swelling, or, in severe cases, bowel obstruction.

Signs of a hernia

If you experience the following symptoms, it could indicate that you have a hernia: 

• A visible bulge that becomes more noticeable when standing or straining
• A feeling of heaviness, burning, or pressure in the abdomen or groin
• Pain that worsens with lifting, bending, or coughing
• Occasional nausea or discomfort after meals

If these symptoms persist or worsen, call our office immediately. Hernias do not heal on their own and often require surgical repair to prevent complications.

Treatment options

At Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, our team performs hernia repair with advanced techniques that prioritize safety, comfort, and recovery. 

Your options include minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, which uses small incisions and a camera for faster healing and less scarring.

We also offer state-of-the-art robotic-assisted hernia repair, which features enhanced precision and minimal downtime.

If your case is complex or you have a large hernia, our surgical team may recommend traditional open surgery. 

Most people can return to light activities within a few days of surgery and resume normal routines within a few weeks. If you get treatment now, you can heal in time to enjoy the season’s celebrations.

Preventing hernia discomfort during the holidays

Surgery is usually the most successful treatment for a hernia. But if you can’t schedule in time, you can take steps to minimize pain and complications during the season. We recommend you:

• Avoid heavy lifting and use proper lifting techniques
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat smaller, balanced meals to reduce abdominal pressure
• Stay active without overexerting yourself

Don’t ignore hernia symptoms or wait until the new year to take care of your health. Early evaluation and treatment can help you avoid complications and get back to enjoying the holidays with family and friends.

Call Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC today or use the online tool to reach out to have your hernia evaluated and treated before the holidays.