Moving Past Preconceived Images of What a Hernia Patient Should Look Like

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 15, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- When most people think of hernias, they usually conjure up an image of an adult man suffering from shooting groin pain after attempting to pick up a heavy object. While this scenario certainly can occur, this picture ignores a variety of other possible hernia traits that can complicate a diagnosis in less typical cases. Shirin Towfigh, M.D., F.A.C.S., of Beverly Hills Hernia Center is the only surgeon in the Western United States specializing in abdominal wall hernias, so she is incredibly capable of detecting hernias when others may miss them. Here are three facts about hernias that defy the traditional stereotypes of what a hernia patient looks like.

1. Hernias can be pain-free – While some hernias are known to cause extreme pain, many hernias, especially those in the early stages, can be pain-free. Often, hernia patients will have a painless lump that recedes into the body depending on body position or activity type. In these cases, although the patient is experiencing no pain at the moment, they may take this as a sign that they do not need to seek treatment, and the hernia might get worse. Although a number of hernia cases seen by Dr. Towfigh can be treated without surgical intervention, it is always important that patients consult an expert to make certain of the fact that they are doing everything they can to prevent further damage.
2. Hernias can occur in women – Less than 1 in 10 diagnosed hernias occur in women, but because they are less common, women are proportionally much more likely to have their hernia pain diagnosed as something else. Inguinal hernias inside women can occur if a portion of the lower intestine breaches the abdominal wall. About 3 percent of all women will suffer from an inguinal hernia at some point in their life.
3. Hernias can occur in children – During normal childhood development, hernias can occur that require a range of treatments and interventions. Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia that occurs in the groin region of children. The most common hernia symptoms in children are bulges in the groin that become more apparent when the child is crying or experiencing physical stress. It is important to check babies and toddlers for bulges, as it is sometimes impossible for them to articulate their pain.

Even if you don't fit the bill for a typical hernia patient, it's important to consult Dr. Shirin Towfigh at the Beverly Hills Hernia Center if you are experiencing pain or bulging. You can contact Dr. Towfigh's office at 310-358-5020 or you can visit the Beverly Hills Hernia surgeon Facebook page. Finally, you can learn more about the different types of hernias and Dr. Towfigh's success in treating them at www.BeverlyHillsHerniaCenter.com.

PR Submitted by Cyberset.com

SOURCE Beverly Hills Hernia Center

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http://www.beverlyhillsherniacenter.com