Profession or Jobs or Activity prone to Hernias

Hernias develop when an organ or tissue bulges through a weak area or opening in the muscle or connective tissue that holds it in place. We will understand in this blog post Profession prone to Hernia and care. Proper medical care ensures effective management and recovery as explained by a Gastrointestinal Surgeon in Mumbai

Dr Pradeep Shriyan

April 21, 2025

Profession or Jobs or Activity prone to Hernias

Heavy Lifting: Occupations that involve frequent heavy lifting, such as construction work, moving and delivery services, or warehouse jobs, can put excessive pressure on the abdominal wall, potentially causing it to weaken and lead to a hernia.
Chronic Coughing: Persistent coughing, as seen in smokers or individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD, can increase intra-abdominal pressure and strain the abdominal muscles over time, contributing to hernia formation.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese puts additional pressure on the abdominal area, making it more difficult for the muscles and connective tissues to support the internal organs properly, increasing the risk of a hernia.
Straining during Bowel Movements: Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements can increase the pressure within the abdomen, potentially leading to the development of a hernia.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the growing foetus and the hormonal changes can weaken the abdominal muscles and connective tissues, making pregnant women more susceptible to developing hernias, particularly in the groin or abdomen.
Previous Surgery: Any surgery involving an incision in the abdominal wall can weaken the area, increasing the risk of developing an incisional hernia at the surgical site.
Strenuous Physical Activities: Certain sports or activities that involve intense abdominal strain, such as weightlifting, football, or wrestling, can increase the risk of developing a hernia.

Symptoms of Hernias

The most common symptom of a hernia is a visible bulge or protrusion in the affected area, which may become more pronounced when coughing, straining, or standing upright. Other symptoms may include:

Dull aching or burning sensation around the bulge
Pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects
Nausea or vomiting (in severe cases, if the hernia becomes incarcerated or strangulated)

Diagnostic Procedures

To accurately diagnose a hernia, your doctor may recommend the following tests or imaging procedures:

Test/Procedure	Purpose
Physical Examination	Assess the size, location, and characteristics of the hernia
Ultrasound	Visualize the hernia and surrounding tissues
CT Scan	Provide detailed images of the hernia and internal structures
MRI	Evaluate the extent of the hernia and identify potential complications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hernias be prevented?

While not all hernias can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting or straining, and quitting smoking to prevent chronic coughing.

Are hernias more common in men or women?

Hernias are generally more common in men, particularly inguinal (groin) hernias. However, women can also develop hernias, especially during pregnancy or after abdominal surgery.

Can a hernia heal on its own?

In some cases, small hernias in infants or children may resolve on their own. However, most hernias in adults will not heal without surgical repair and may continue to grow and become more problematic over time.

Contact Us

Seeking prompt health advice for Hernia treatment in Mumbai is not just for symptom relief but also for screening associated problems.

If you are near Mumbai, you can Contact the Senior Gastrointestinal Surgeon in Mumbai – Dr Pradeep Shriyan

Don’t ignore the troublesome symptoms of Hernia or related issues. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment of Hernia are crucial for preventing potential complications and ensuring a successful outcome.