Hernias that commonly occur in the elderly

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Hernias that commonly occur in the elderly

Inguinal hernia

  • In particular, men aged 40 and over will feel a lump in the groin and feel a tightness. If left untreated, it will flow down to the testicles. They will have to use their hands to push the lump back into the pants. In some cases, those with prostate problems will experience abnormal urination and have to strain for a long time.  

Stuck hernia

  • A condition where the intestines protrude and fold, twist, or twist together until they cannot be pushed back into their original position. This poses a high risk of blockage of this organ. If left untreated for more than 6 hours, there will be a lack of blood flow, the intestines may rot or perforate, causing germs to spread throughout the abdominal cavity, enter the bloodstream, and eventually cause death.

Risk factors for hernias in the elderly

  • Have you ever had an accident that caused impact on your abdominal area?
  • Straining to urinate or defecate
  • Carrying luggage regularly
  • Overweight
  • Smoking
  • Prostate abnormalities
  • Severe chronic cough
  • Do some types of exercise
  • pregnant
  • Cesarean section

Hernia surgery in the elderly

Elderly people are at risk of complications or having to return for repeated surgery, both due to deterioration of physical condition or efficiency of functioning of various organs, including chronic diseases. Doctors therefore consider surgery by assessing the patient first, before selecting the appropriate treatment method for each individual. There are 2 methods of hernia surgery.

MIS endoscopic model

  • It is the use of medical technology that allows the patient to have a smaller wound, less pain, and a faster recovery. The doctor will make a small hole in the abdomen, then insert a camera to find the abnormality and bring in the instruments to perform the surgery.

Open abdominal type

  • Elderly patients have weak abdominal muscle walls. Doctors use synthetic mesh to suture them until they connect with the tissue. Which takes at least 3 months.

Prevention of hernias in the elderly

  • Avoid lifting heavy objects.
  • Treat chronic diseases completely, especially diseases related to the prostate gland.
  • Quit smoking
  • Eat vegetables and fruits that are high in fiber.
  • Reduce strenuous activities or heavy exercise.
  • Do not strain when defecating, urinating, or coughing or sneezing hard.
  • If you are overweight, you should lose weight in the right way.
  • Those who have undergone hernia surgery should strictly follow the doctor’s advice.