Prince Charles is far from alone in needing an operation to repair a hernia. It is the commonest male operation performed in the UK, with the NHS performing over 100,000 hernia repairs every year.
What is a hernia?
A hernia is usually caused by a tear to the abdominal muscles.
In some cases part of the intestine or stomach will bulge through the hole and form a painful lump under the skin.
The commonest type of hernia is found in the groin.
It is known as an inguinal hernia because the weak spot usually occurs along the inguinal canal, an area where the tube that carries sperm enters the scrotum.
Men are more likely to have an inherent weakness along the inguinal canal than women because of the way they develop in the womb.
Are there other types of hernia?
Yes. Protrusions elsewhere on the abdominal wall are called femoral and umbilical hernias.
Another type is the hiatal hernia, which occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm separating the chest and the abdomen.
Sometimes a hernia can form under the scar of an operation, in which case it is called an incisional hernia.
What causes a hernia?
Anything which increases pressure on the abdominal muscles can lead to a tear.
This includes heavy lifting, coughing, straining on the toilet, vigorous exercise or even sex.
Are they are serious risk to health?
In most cases a hernia is simply a painful nuisance.
However, there is a danger that the tissue that has fallen through the muscle wall can get strangulated. This means it gets stuck and its blood supply is cut off.
In this case emergency surgery is necessary before the tissue starts to die.
How are they treated?
Trusses used to be used to keep the hernia in place.
However, a simple operation is now carried out to repair the weakness before problems arise.
Most operations takes less than one hour, and can be done using keyhole surgery techniques.
The surgeon will remove the hernia sac and sew the weakened area of muscle together.
Sometimes a synthetic mesh will be used to help reinforce the repair.
Recovery is usually very swift, but it is best to avoid anything strenuous for four to six weeks after surgery.
How can they be avoided?
It is best to avoid becoming overweight.
If you have to lift heavy items, then make sure you do so correctly, by bending your knees and keeping your back straight.
A healthy, high-fibre diet is also a good idea, as is refraining from smoking.
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