In a tragic turn of events, 52-year-old Ghaziabad District Judge Ashish Garg passed away on Monday after suffering a fatal heart attack in a hospital washroom. Garg had undergone hernia surgery on August 10 at Yashoda Hospital and was still in recovery.
The unexpected death of Garg has brought renewed attention to hernias, which many individuals undervalue until the deficiency becomes serious, casting light on issues such as its causes, symptoms, and possible preventive measures.
While hernias are not directly linked to heart attacks, the surgery and recovery may put more stress on the body, especially in cases with people having high blood pressure, diabetes, or those who smoke.
What Exactly is a Hernia?
It is a condition when some internal organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue surrounding it. More often than not, hernias are harmless initially but, if neglected, may lead to severe complications.
Types of Hernia
There are various forms of hernias; the different types of hernia are:
Inguinal hernia: This is the most common one, especially in males. It is in the groin, where some tissue pushes through the lower abdominal wall.
Umbilical hernia: It troubles through the umbilical area. It is common in newborns but can also occur among adults owing to obesity or heavy exertion.
Hiatal hernia: Here, a part of the stomach passes up into the chest cavity through the diaphragm, often associated with acid reflux.
Incisional hernia: Occurs at the site of a prior surgical incision where the tissue has been weakened.
Femoral hernia: A less common hernia located on the upper thigh or outer groin; it occurs commonly among females.
Symptoms to Observe
- Visible bulge or swelling in the abdomen or groin
- Discomfort or pain occurring during such activities as bending, lifting, or coughing
- Any heavy or dragging sensation in the diseased area
- Feeling weakness or pressure in the abdomen
- Burning, aching, or gurgling just around the bulge
More severe situations might present with nausea, vomiting, or constipation, all of which could be signs of a strangulated hernia and would thus require emergency surgery.
Also Read: What is a hernia? Are you at risk?
What Causes Hernias?
Chronic coughing or sneezing, heavy lifting without the appropriate posture, straining on the toilet, being overweight, having undergone abdominal surgery, and occasionally just becoming older, when muscles tend to lose strength, are all common causes.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A hernia is typically diagnosed through a physical examination, with imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI sometimes used for confirmation. Once detected, surgical repair is often the most reliable way to prevent the condition from worsening.
Recovery and Preventive Measures
Following discharge, doctors typically advise:
- Avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting for several weeks
- Keeping the body at an ideal weight
- Increasing fibre in one's diet to avoid constipation
- Following the doctor's instructions regarding wound care
- Making sure to keep all follow-up appointments
Hernias may be common, but they’re not to be ignored. Early detection, timely treatment, and proper recovery practices can make all the difference between a smooth recovery and a life-threatening complication.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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