A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While hernias are common—affecting millions of people worldwide—many individuals delay seeking treatment due to lack of awareness about symptoms or fear of surgery. At LLH Hospital Abu Dhabi, our experienced general and laparoscopic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of hernias using advanced, minimally invasive techniques.

Understanding the different types of hernias, recognizing their symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical attention can prevent serious complications and ensure optimal outcomes. This comprehensive guide will help you identify hernia symptoms and understand your treatment options at LLH Hospital.

What is a Hernia?

A hernia develops when internal organs or tissues protrude through a weakened area in the muscle wall that normally contains them. Think of it like a tire with a weak spot—when pressure builds up, the inner tube pushes through the weakened area, creating a bulge.

Hernias can occur in various locations throughout the abdomen and groin area. While some hernias cause minimal discomfort, others can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

Why Do Hernias Occur?

Hernias develop due to a combination of muscle weakness and strain. Common contributing factors include:

Congenital weakness present from birth

Age-related muscle deterioration

Injury or surgical incisions

Chronic coughing or sneezing

Pregnancy and childbirth

Obesity and excess abdominal pressure

Heavy lifting without proper technique

Chronic constipation and straining

Fluid accumulation in the abdomen

Common Types of Hernias

Understanding the different types of hernias is crucial for proper identification and treatment. Here are the most common types our surgeons treat at LLH Hospital:

1. Inguinal Hernia (Groin Hernia)

What It Is: Inguinal hernias are the most common type, accounting for approximately 75% of all hernias. They occur when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the inguinal canal, located in the groin area.

Who Gets It:

Predominantly affects men (25 times more common than in women)

Can occur at any age, including infants

More common in older adults

Symptoms:

Visible bulge in the groin area, especially when standing or coughing

Burning, aching, or heavy sensation in the groin

Pain that worsens with physical activity, lifting, or prolonged standing

Swelling around the testicles in men

Bulge that may disappear when lying down

Discomfort that intensifies throughout the day

Types:

Direct inguinal hernia: Usually develops in older adults due to weakened abdominal muscles

Indirect inguinal hernia: More common in younger people, often present from birth

2. Femoral Hernia

What It Is: Femoral hernias occur when tissue pushes through the femoral canal, just below the inguinal ligament in the upper thigh.

Who Gets It:

More common in women, especially pregnant or obese women

Often affects older adults

Less common than inguinal hernias but has higher complication rates

Symptoms:

Small bulge near the groin or top of the thigh

Hip or groin pain that worsens with standing or lifting

Abdominal discomfort

Nausea and vomiting if bowel becomes trapped

Often less noticeable than inguinal hernias

Why It’s Serious: Femoral hernias have a higher risk of strangulation (when blood supply is cut off) and require prompt surgical attention.

3. Umbilical Hernia (Belly Button Hernia)

What It Is: Umbilical hernias develop when tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall near the belly button.

Who Gets It:

Common in infants (especially premature babies)

Affects women more than men in adulthood

Risk increases with pregnancy, obesity, and multiple pregnancies

Symptoms:

Visible bulge or swelling at the belly button

Bulge becomes more prominent when crying, coughing, or straining (in infants)

Mild discomfort or pain in adults

Feeling of pressure at the belly button

Nausea if intestine becomes trapped

Special Note: In infants, small umbilical hernias often close naturally by age 1-2 years. However, adult umbilical hernias require surgical repair.

4. Incisional Hernia

What It Is: Incisional hernias develop at the site of a previous surgical incision where the abdominal wall has weakened.

Who Gets It:

Anyone who has had abdominal surgery

Higher risk with obesity, infection, or poor wound healing

Can develop months or years after surgery

Symptoms:

Bulge near or at the site of a previous surgical scar

Pain or discomfort at the hernia site

Bulge that increases in size over time

Redness or discoloration if complications develop

Aching sensation that worsens with activity

Risk Factors:

Infection at the surgical site

Obesity

Smoking

Chronic cough

Heavy lifting too soon after surgery

Poor nutrition affecting wound healing

5. Hiatal Hernia

What It Is: A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.

Who Gets It:

More common in people over 50

Affects women more than men

Associated with obesity and pregnancy

Symptoms:

Heartburn and acid reflux

Chest pain or discomfort

Difficulty swallowing

Belching and bloating

Shortness of breath

Regurgitation of food or liquids

Many people have no symptoms

Types:

Sliding hiatal hernia: Most common; the stomach and esophagus slide up into the chest

Paraesophageal hiatal hernia: Less common but more serious; part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm

6. Epigastric Hernia

What It Is: Epigastric hernias occur in the upper abdomen, between the belly button and the breastbone.

Who Gets It:

More common in men

Can occur at any age

Often multiple hernias develop

Symptoms:

Small, tender lump in the upper abdomen

Pain in the upper abdomen, especially when straining

May be pain-free and discovered incidentally

Discomfort that comes and goes

7. Spigelian Hernia

What It Is: A rare hernia that develops along the edge of the abdominal muscle, typically below the belly button.

Who Gets It:

Uncommon (accounts for less than 2% of hernias)

Usually occurs in adults aged 50-70

Symptoms:

Often difficult to detect visually

Vague abdominal pain

Change in bowel habits

Intermittent bulge that may not be visible

Higher risk of strangulation due to delayed diagnosis

8. Obturator Hernia

What It Is: An extremely rare hernia through the obturator canal in the pelvis.

Who Gets It:

Predominantly affects elderly, thin women

Very rare (less than 1% of hernias)

Symptoms:

Inner thigh and groin pain

Bowel obstruction symptoms

Nausea and vomiting

Often difficult to diagnose

Pain that radiates down the inner thigh

Recognizing Hernia Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Care

While hernia symptoms vary by type and location, there are common warning signs that warrant medical attention.

General Hernia Symptoms:

Visible bulge or lump: Most noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining

Discomfort or pain: Ranging from mild aching to severe pain

Feeling of heaviness: Particularly in the groin or abdomen

Burning or gurgling sensation: At the bulge site

Weakness or pressure: In the affected area

Bulge that disappears when lying down: Common in reducible hernias

Emergency Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care:

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience:

Severe, sudden pain at the hernia site

Inability to push the bulge back in (incarcerated hernia)

Nausea and vomiting with abdominal pain

Bulge becomes firm, tender, or discolored

Inability to pass gas or have bowel movements

Fever along with hernia symptoms

Rapid heart rate or feeling faint

Abdominal distension and severe pain

These symptoms may indicate a strangulated hernia—a life-threatening emergency where blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off. This requires immediate surgical intervention.

Diagnosing Hernias at LLH Hospital Abu Dhabi

At LLH Hospital, our General and Laparoscopic Surgery Department uses a comprehensive approach to diagnose hernias accurately and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Clinical Examination

Initial Assessment: Our experienced surgeons begin with a thorough physical examination that includes:

Discussion of your medical history and symptoms

Visual inspection of the affected area

Palpation (gentle touch examination) to feel for bulges

Asking you to cough or strain to make the hernia more prominent

Assessment while standing and lying down

Evaluation of hernia reducibility

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

When needed, we utilize state-of-the-art imaging technology:

Ultrasound:

Non-invasive and radiation-free

Excellent for groin hernias

Can assess hernia contents and size

Real-time imaging during movement

CT Scan (Computed Tomography):

Detailed cross-sectional images

Ideal for complex or internal hernias

Helps identify complications

Useful for surgical planning

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):

Superior soft tissue visualization

Useful for difficult-to-diagnose hernias

No radiation exposure

Particularly helpful for abdominal wall hernias

X-rays:

May be used to check for bowel obstruction

Helpful in emergency situations

Specialized Assessment

For complex cases, our multidisciplinary approach may include:

Consultation with gastroenterologists (for hiatal hernias)

Pain specialists (for chronic pain assessment)

Nutritionists (for obesity-related hernias)

Physical therapists (for post-surgical recovery planning)

Treatment Options: Modern Hernia Repair at LLH Hospital

At LLH Hospital, we offer comprehensive hernia treatment ranging from watchful waiting to advanced laparoscopic surgery. Our approach is tailored to each patient’s specific condition, overall health, and lifestyle needs.

Watchful Waiting

When It May Be Appropriate:

Very small, asymptomatic hernias

Patients with significant medical conditions making surgery high-risk

Minimal symptoms not affecting quality of life

Important Note: Hernias do not heal on their own and will not disappear without treatment. Watchful waiting requires regular monitoring and most hernias will eventually require surgical repair.

Surgical Repair: The Definitive Solution

Surgery is the only permanent cure for hernias. At LLH Hospital, we specialize in both traditional open repair and advanced laparoscopic techniques.

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: Minimally Invasive Excellence

LLH Hospital is a leader in minimally invasive laparoscopic hernia surgery, offering patients significant advantages over traditional open surgery.

What is Laparoscopic Hernia Repair?

Laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions (typically 5-10mm) through which a camera and specialized instruments are inserted. The surgeon views the procedure on high-definition monitors and repairs the hernia using surgical mesh to reinforce the weakened area.

Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery:

Patient Benefits:

Smaller incisions: Multiple tiny incisions instead of one large cut

Less post-operative pain: Significantly reduced discomfort

Faster recovery: Return to normal activities in 1-2 weeks

Shorter hospital stay: Often same-day or next-day discharge

Reduced infection risk: Smaller wounds mean lower infection rates

Better cosmetic results: Minimal scarring

Lower recurrence rates: Mesh reinforcement provides strong repair

Quick return to work: Most patients resume work within 1-2 weeks

Surgical Advantages:

Better visualization of the hernia and surrounding anatomy

Ability to check and repair hernias on both sides simultaneously

Reduced trauma to surrounding tissues

More precise mesh placement

Types of Laparoscopic Hernia Repairs at LLH Hospital:

TAPP (Trans-Abdominal Pre-Peritoneal) Repair:

Approach through the abdominal cavity

Excellent for bilateral hernias

Allows complete visualization

TEP (Totally Extra-Peritoneal) Repair:

Does not enter the abdominal cavity

Lower risk of bowel injury

Ideal for recurrent hernias

Laparoscopic Ventral/Incisional Hernia Repair:

Minimally invasive approach for abdominal wall hernias

Enhanced mesh fixation techniques

Faster recovery than open repair

Open Hernia Repair

For certain patients and hernia types, traditional open surgery remains the best option.

When Open Surgery Is Recommended:

Very large hernias

Recurrent hernias with previous mesh

Emergency situations with bowel strangulation

Patient preference or medical conditions precluding laparoscopy

Limited access to the hernia site

Open Repair Techniques:

Lichtenstein Repair:

Gold standard for inguinal hernia repair

Uses mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall

Performed under local or general anesthesia

Time-tested with excellent long-term results

Primary Tissue Repair:

Suturing muscle layers without mesh

Used for small hernias in specific situations

Higher recurrence rates than mesh repair

Component Separation:

Advanced technique for large, complex hernias

Releases abdominal wall muscles to achieve closure

May be combined with mesh reinforcement

Mesh vs. Non-Mesh Repair

Mesh Repair:

Advantages:

Lower recurrence rates (1-3% vs. 10-20% without mesh)

Stronger, more durable repair

Less tension on tissues

Faster recovery

Types of Mesh:

Synthetic (polypropylene, polyester)

Biologic (derived from human or animal tissue)

Composite (combination materials)

Our surgeons select the most appropriate mesh based on hernia type, size, location, and individual patient factors.

Non-Mesh Repair:

When Considered:

Contaminated or infected surgical fields

Patient preference after thorough counseling

Certain pediatric hernias

Selected small hernias in young patients

Meet Our Expert Hernia Surgery Team

The General and Laparoscopic Surgery Department at LLH Hospital Abu Dhabi is staffed by highly skilled surgeons with extensive training and experience in hernia repair.

Our Surgical Expertise:

Advanced Training:

Board-certified general surgeons

Specialized fellowship training in laparoscopic surgery

Years of experience performing hundreds of hernia repairs annually

Continuous education in the latest surgical techniques

Comprehensive Capabilities:

All types of hernia repairs (inguinal, femoral, umbilical, incisional, hiatal)

Both laparoscopic and open surgical approaches

Emergency hernia surgery available 24/7

Complex and recurrent hernia repairs

Robotic-assisted surgery for select cases

Patient-Centered Philosophy: Our surgeons understand that each patient is unique. We take time to:

Listen to your concerns and answer all questions

Explain your diagnosis in clear, understandable terms

Discuss all treatment options, including risks and benefits

Involve you in decision-making about your care

Provide compassionate support throughout your treatment journey

Why Choose LLH Hospital for Hernia Surgery?

State-of-the-Art Facilities:

Modern operating rooms equipped with advanced laparoscopic technology

High-definition imaging systems for precision surgery

Dedicated recovery areas with experienced nursing staff

Multidisciplinary Care:

Collaboration with anesthesiologists, pain specialists, and nutritionists

Comprehensive pre-operative assessment

Personalized post-operative care plans

Proven Outcomes:

High success rates with low complication rates

Minimal recurrence rates

Excellent patient satisfaction scores

Convenient Location:

Easily accessible in Abu Dhabi

Ample parking and comfortable waiting areas

Multilingual staff to serve diverse patient populations

Schedule Your Hernia Consultation Today

Don’t let a hernia hold you back from living your best life. The expert team at LLH Hospital’s General and Laparoscopic Surgery Department is ready to provide the comprehensive care you deserve.

Take the First Step:

Whether you’ve noticed a bulge, experienced discomfort, or want a second opinion, we’re here to help.

Benefits of Early Consultation:

Prevent complications

Explore all treatment options

Peace of mind with accurate diagnosis

Plan surgery at a convenient time

Faster, easier recovery with early treatment

What to Expect at Your First Visit:

Comprehensive evaluation by an experienced surgeon

Discussion of your symptoms and medical history

Physical examination

Diagnostic imaging if needed

Clear explanation of findings and recommendations

Opportunity to ask questions

Personalized treatment plan

Contact LLH Hospital Abu Dhabi

Department of General and Laparoscopic Surgery

Call Now: 800 55
Visit Our Website: www.llhhospital.com

Easy Appointment Scheduling:

Call our dedicated appointment line

Book online through our website

Walk-in consultations available

Emergency care available around the clock

Frequently Asked Questions About Hernias

Q: Can a hernia go away on its own without surgery?
A: No, hernias do not heal naturally and will not disappear without surgical repair. They typically grow larger over time and increase the risk of complications.

Q: Is hernia surgery painful?
A: With modern surgical techniques, especially laparoscopic surgery, post-operative pain is minimal and well-managed with medications. Most patients describe discomfort rather than severe pain.

Q: How long do I need to stay in the hospital?
A: For laparoscopic hernia repair, most patients go home the same day or the next morning. Open surgery may require 1-3 days depending on the complexity.

Q: When can I return to work after hernia surgery?
A: This depends on your job and the type of surgery. For desk jobs after laparoscopic surgery, most patients return within 1-2 weeks. Physically demanding jobs may require 4-6 weeks.

Q: What is the success rate of hernia surgery?
A: Modern hernia repair with mesh has a success rate of over 95%, with recurrence rates of only 1-3% when performed by experienced surgeons.

Q: Can hernias recur after surgery?
A: While rare with modern techniques (1-3% recurrence rate), hernias can return, especially if risk factors like obesity, chronic cough, or heavy lifting aren’t addressed.

Q: Is mesh safe? Can I be allergic to surgical mesh?
A: Surgical mesh used in hernia repair has been proven safe and effective over decades. True allergic reactions are extremely rare. Your surgeon will discuss mesh options and address any concerns.

Q: Can I exercise after hernia surgery?
A: Yes, but gradually. Light walking is encouraged immediately after surgery. More strenuous exercise should wait 4-6 weeks until tissues fully heal.

Q: What if my hernia is very small and doesn’t bother me much?
A: Even small hernias should be evaluated by a surgeon. While some small hernias can be monitored, they tend to grow over time and increase complication risks.

Q: Are there any dietary restrictions after hernia surgery?
A: Initially, you’ll start with light, easily digestible foods. Within a few days, most patients can resume a normal diet. High-fiber foods are recommended to prevent constipation.

Q: Can I drive after hernia surgery?
A: You can resume driving when you’re no longer taking narcotic pain medications and can comfortably perform emergency maneuvers. This is typically 3-7 days after laparoscopic surgery.

Q: Will I have visible scars?
A: Laparoscopic surgery results in minimal scarring—typically three to four small incisions of 5-10mm. Open surgery scars vary by location but are placed to minimize visibility.

Don’t Wait—Take Control of Your Health Today

A hernia won’t heal on its own, but with expert care from LLH Hospital’s General and Laparoscopic Surgery Department, you can get back to living life without limitations. Our experienced team uses the latest minimally invasive techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes with the fastest recovery.