A hernia occurs when fatty tissue or an organ squeezes through the wall of muscles or tissue that normally hold it in place. They do not go away on their own, and when left untreated, they can become painful overtime or cause complications in blood flow or bowel obstruction.
While hernias are manageable with surgery, the best treatment is to prevent them from happening in the first place. And the best way to do that is to avoid activities that put too much pressure on the abdomen. You can also keep these tips in mind to keep hernias a bay:
Exercise
A healthy weight can reduce the risk of a hernia. If you’re interested in exercising, focus on activities that strengthen the core, such as pilates or crunches, to better protect your body. It’s also important to avoid excessive jumping or squatting, as these can trigger a hernia.
Learn Proper Form
When you regularly lift weights or other heavy objects, it’s important to use proper form. Using your legs instead of your back for power protects you from a variety of health complications, one of which is a hernia. Lifting more than you can carry increases your risk of putting too much strain on the abdomen as well.
Eat Right
Specifically, eating enough fiber reduces the risk of constipation, which in turn, decreases the risk of a hernia. Fruits, veggies, whole grains and certain seeds are a great source of dietary fiber to keep your stomach happy.
Self Care
Persistent coughing as a result of allergies, smoking or other illness should be taken care of sooner rather than later. Continuous coughing is a major cause of creating or further straining a hernia.
With preventative measures, you can set yourself up for a lifetime of healthy living. For more on hernias, see our related services or call 231-739-9461 to schedule a consultation.