Hernia Awareness Month: Products for Hernia Support

A hernia is a common medical condition, with over 200,000 cases reported annually in the United States, but it's one that receives little discussion. Chances are you'll sooner hear it mentioned as a stock medical punchline than a serious topic. It's estimated that more than 5 million people have some form of hernia, but only 750,000 people yearly receive treatment for one. Many people may not be aware of the signs of hernia and have mistaken their ongoing pain for something else.

The Facts About Hernias

A hernia occurs when the muscle wall weakens and other tissue protrudes through it, especially intestines, fat, or other organs. They most commonly appear as inguinal hernias, or ones in the groin area, which account for 70% of hernias. Others include vental hernias, which involve the abdominal wall, or hiatal hernias, where the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity. These latter forms are often associated with gastral issues including acid reflux.

Risk Factors and Causes

A combination of muscle weakness and strain, especially over an excessive period of time, causes a hernia. Risk factors for developing a hernia may include:

• Heavy lifting.
• Weight gain and obesity.
• Constipation or straining during bowel movements.
• Colostomy or ileostomy.
• Previous surgery in the area, such as an appendectomy.
• Peritoneal dialysis.
• Collagen Vascular Disease.
• Pregnancy.
• Persistent coughing or sneezing.
• Smoking.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Some hernias disproportionately affect men, especially inguinal hernias, which have a 27% lifetime risk for men and 3% for women. Hernias do not heal on their own and most require surgery. Untreated, they can cause complications like bowel obstruction or strangulation.

Hernia Symptoms

The location of a hernia will often affect any related symptoms, but the most common sign is a lump or bulge at the site, especially one that's easier to feel when you're standing up, bending down, or coughing.

Inguinal hernias also may cause:

• Pain or discomfort in the area, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting.
• Weakness, pressure, or a heavy feeling in the abdomen.
• Burning or aching sensations at the bulge.

Hiatal hernias also may cause:

• Acid reflux.
• Chest pain.
• Difficulty swallowing.

Some hernias have no symptoms, and you may not be aware of one until it's spotted during a routine examination.

Hernia Products

1. Core Products Hernia Aid Support Belt

Recommended for the temporary control of inguinal hernias, the Core Products Hernia Aid Support features comfortable, effective support whether you've got a left or right side, or even double, hernia. The lightweight, comfortable support belt securely positions soft, contoured pads designed to provide stability and effective containment. It's designed to be inconspicuous underneath clothing, so you can wear it discreetly in public, getting the support you need while avoiding self-consciousness.

2. Post-Hernia Surgery Recovery Kit

This Post-Hernia Surgery Recovery Kit, for those recovering from inguinal hernia surgery, has been assembled with the needs of recovering hernia patients in mind. It includes a suspensory to provide support and stability for your groin, a male urinal to help limit uncomfortable trips to the bathroom, a reusable gel cold pack to alleviate swelling and discomfort, and a bottle of Ibuprofen in 200mg tablets to reduce pain and inflammation. If you're about to be in the uncomfortable position of recovering from hernial surgery, start your return to health with this kit.

3. Zantac 150 Maximum Strength Acid Reducer

Hiatal hernias are a special class of uncomfortable, as they can cause painful acid reflux and heartburn. You'll need an H2 blocker to reduce stomach acid. You'll need Zantac 150. This antacid acts quickly and powerfully to prevent and stop heartburn within 30 minutes, providing relief that lasts up to 12 hours. These refreshing Cool Mint antacids are the #1 doctor recommended H2 brand, formulated with twice as much ranitidine as Zantac 75.