Hernia Awareness Month: Key Facts

June is Hernia Awareness Month—a time to learn about hernias, their symptoms, and the treatment choices available. At Arizona Endocrine Surgery, Dr. Richard Harding—an expert in hernia surgery—is committed to helping patients understand their condition and make informed decisions about their care.

What Is a Hernia?

A hernia happens when an internal organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue (fascia). Hernias most often develop in the abdomen, groin, upper thigh, or near the belly button. They do not go away on their own and usually get larger over time.

Common Types of Hernias

Hernias are generally named for where they occur in the body:

• Inguinal hernia (groin): The most common type, occurring much more frequently in men.

• Umbilical hernia (belly button): Common in babies but can also develop in adults.

• Femoral hernia (upper thigh/outer groin): Less common, seen more often in older women, and carries a higher risk of complications.

• Hiatal hernia (diaphragm): Part of the stomach moves up into the chest cavity, often causing acid reflux or heartburn rather than a visible bulge.

• Incisional hernia (prior surgery site): Develops where the abdominal wall was weakened by a past surgical incision.

Symptoms of a Hernia

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• A visible bulge or lump that may become more obvious when standing up or coughing.

• Pain or discomfort, especially when lifting, coughing, or bending over.

• A feeling of pressure, heaviness, or weakness in the abdomen or groin.

• Symptoms that worsen with physical activity or long periods of standing.

When Is Surgery Needed?

Many patients ask, “If it doesn’t hurt, do I really need surgery?” Because a hernia is a physical opening or weakness in the muscle wall, it cannot heal on its own. Surgery is the only definitive way to repair it, but the timing depends entirely on your symptoms and overall risk.

Elective (Non-Urgent) Repair

If a hernia is small and causing mild or no symptoms, you can usually plan a repair at a convenient time. Repairing a hernia early is often simpler and helps prevent it from getting larger, more painful, or turning into an emergency later on.

Urgent or Emergency Evaluation

Some hernias can become trapped (incarcerated) or lose their blood supply (strangulated). A strangulated hernia is a medical emergency. Seek medical care right away if you experience:

• Sudden, severe pain at the hernia site.

• A bulge that turns red, purple, or dark.

• Nausea and vomiting.

• An inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement.

• A fever accompanying a painful bulge.

Hernia Repair Options

Dr. Richard Harding—an expert in hernia surgery—offers modern, advanced approaches tailored to each patient's specific needs, including:

• Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) repair: Performed through a few tiny incisions, typically resulting in less postoperative pain and a faster recovery.

• Robotic-assisted repair: Provides the surgeon with enhanced precision and a clear 3D view, which is ideal for complex repairs.

• Open repair: A traditional approach that remains the safest, most effective choice for very large or complex hernias.

Don’t Wait Until It’s an Emergency

If you have noticed a new bulge, experience ongoing groin or abdominal discomfort, or have been told you have a hernia in the past, Hernia Awareness Month is the perfect time to get evaluated.

See your primary care physician to request a referral to Dr. Harding so you can discuss your options and take the next step toward safeguarding your health.