Anyone can develop a hernia - a bulge or weakness usually from a muscle defect - and if left unrepaired the consequences can be dangerous.
Dr. Daniel Heithold, a general surgeon with CHI Memorial Surgical Associates, said many people are living with hernias and unsure about how or when to undergo treatment. Heithold, along with other CHI Memorial surgeons, will host a free community event Wednesday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m to offer screenings, field questions and explain treatment options for this common condition.
Hernias are usually found in the abdomen or groin region and rarely heal on their own. Screenings for hiatal hernias that cause heartburn will not be available.
"Often times, people may know they have a hernia and the [primary care doctor] may say to watch it, so those people for sure can get a second opinion," Heithold said. "We like to find them and repair them on an elective basis versus waiting for a potentially significant complication that may alter their treatment options."
If surgery is required, it's generally done as an outpatient procedure and requires minimal recovery.
Dr. James Lovette, a general surgeon who will also be at the event, said just because someone has a hernia doesn't necessarily mean it has to be fixed, but the event is an opportunity to ask.
"Anybody can come if they think they have a hernia," Lovette said. "Because it is free, we're hoping that people who are underserved or underinsured or uninsured can know about it, and if they think they have one, that'd be an opportunity for them to come get checked out."
The event will take place at CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga Community Rooms (entrance B – surgery services). More info is available at https://www.memorial.org/herniascreening.
Contact staff writer Elizabeth Fite at efite@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6673.