Which department should I visit for a hernia?

Patients with hernias should seek medical care in departments such as general surgery, hernia and abdominal wall surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, urology, or emergency medicine, depending on the type, location, and urgency of symptoms. Immediate hospitalization is required if a hernia suddenly becomes incarcerated (irreducible), accompanied by severe pain, nausea, or vomiting.

1. General Surgery: As a primary care specialty, this department manages common hernias such as inguinal and umbilical hernias. Diagnosis is made through physical examination and ultrasound, and standard hernia repair surgeries are performed. It is suitable for patients with stable symptoms and no complex complications.

2. Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery: This specialty focuses on hernias and abdominal wall disorders, offering extensive experience in managing complex cases such as recurrent or giant hernias. Advanced repair techniques are used to minimize recurrence risk and support recovery of abdominal wall function.

3. Gastrointestinal Surgery: This department treats hernias related to prior gastrointestinal surgeries, such as incisional or parastomal hernias. Evaluation takes into account the patient's surgical history, and repairs are performed with careful protection of gastrointestinal function to minimize disruption to intra-abdominal organs.

4. Urology: When a hernia is located near the genitourinary system and may compress the bladder or vas deferens, urological function can be evaluated simultaneously. Surgical procedures are carefully performed to avoid injury to urinary structures, ensuring patient safety.

5. Emergency Department: This is appropriate for urgent conditions such as incarcerated or strangulated hernias. Rapid emergency protocols can be initiated, including emergency surgery to relieve incarceration and prevent serious complications like bowel necrosis, thereby improving patient outcomes.

Daily care includes avoiding actions that increase intra-abdominal pressure—such as vigorous coughing or prolonged bending—maintaining regular bowel movements, wearing loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction at the hernia site, and monitoring the hernia regularly. Any changes or worsening symptoms should prompt immediate medical evaluation.