In lieu of Hernia Awareness Month, Ozarks Community Hospital will be hosting FREE hernia screenings on Tuesday, June 22nd, 2021 from 10 am – 12 pm. Dr. Stephen Morrison, board certified general and cardiothoracic surgeon at OCH, will be performing the screenings in the OCH Specialty Clinic, located on the 2nd floor of the hospital.
A hernia occurs when one of the organs protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. Common indicators include a heavy feeling in your abdomen when you bend, pain when you lift heavy objects, or a lump that enlarges when you strain and disappears when you lie down.
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, over 5 million people in the United States suffer from a hernia. Surprisingly, only about 15% of them seek medical help every year. Some hernias with few symptoms may just need monitoring by your primary care physician. Those with more serious symptoms may need treatment.
“The most common types of abdominal-related hernias we see are in the umbilical and groin areas, or from a previous incision,” explains Dr. Morrison. “Most often, hernias can be diagnosed with a physical exam, which is why I am excited to offer FREE hernia screenings to the community.”
While a variety of factors can play into hernia development, hernias tend to come from jobs that are more physically strenuous. Other things that can impact hernia development are: family history, obesity, pregnancy, straining caused from physical exercise, coughing and smoking.
Reserve a consult today by calling 479-344-6870! Spots are filling up quick.