Plano, TX, July 18, 2016 – It is estimated that about 5 million Americans develop hernias each year. Only about 700,000 people, however, undergo surgery to correct this condition. Whether the reason for the disparity in numbers involves fear of surgery or desire to “tough it out,” doctors say delaying the inevitable is not necessarily a good move.

A hernia develops when a piece of an internal organ manages to bulge through abdominal muscle tissues that have been weakened. When this happens, the organ protrudes out of its normal place. This condition can cause discomfort for some, but others may experience extreme pain, especially when lifting or moving.

Over time, hernias may worsen with the weakening in the muscles expanding. What’s more, some hernias develop to the point that the organ’s blood flow is cut off when it becomes trapped in the protrusion. This is known as hernia strangulation and is considered an emergency medical situation that demands immediate surgery.

“While not every hernia demands surgery right away, most people will find their conditions do worsen over time,” says Dr. Nick Nicholson, founder and lead surgeon of Abdominal Surgery Specialists, a part of the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery. “Considering the risk of strangulation, it is recommended that people with hernias undergo surgery sooner rather than later in most cases.”

Courtesy of surgical advancements, hernia repair is now a rather simple surgical procedure. Patients will find they are in and out of the hospital within a day or two in most cases. Most modern hernia repairs are performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, which reduces blood loss and risks for other potential complications. Recovery time is generally only a few weeks.

“A small hernia may not require immediate surgical intervention,” says Dr. Nicholson. “Hernias, however, typically don’t stay small for long. People who think they have a hernia should take the time to see a doctor for sound advice in their unique case. Surgery is often essential for preventing serious complications, such as strangulation.”

About Abdominal Surgery Specialists
Founded by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the country’s leading weight loss surgeons and co-author of “Weight Loss Surgery: The Real Skinny,” Abdominal Surgery Specialists provides patients with a variety of options to treat conditions including gallbladders, hernias, reflux and obesity.