A Q&A with Ascension Medical Group surgeon, Dr. Tyler Warmack
Hernias are more common than many might think, especially among working adults. To better understand this condition and its implications in the workplace, Dr. Tyler Warmack, a surgeon with Ascension Medical Group in Appleton, discusses symptoms, treatment options and what employers can do to help.
Q: What exactly is a hernia, and how common are they in the working population?
Dr. Warmack: A hernia is essentially a hole or defect in the abdominal wall—or the groin, which is an extension of the abdominal wall—that allows tissue, like fat or bowel, to protrude where it shouldn’t. Hernias are very common; approximately 20 to 30% of adults deal with them.
Q: What are the most common causes of hernias in working adults?
Dr. Warmack: Some hernias are congenital, meaning that people are born with them. Others are acquired and often stem from physical stress like heavy lifting. Risk factors include obesity, smoking, chronic constipation, and respiratory conditions like COPD that increase pressure on the abdominal wall. Hernias can also result from surgical procedures, especially open or emergency surgeries, creating what we call “incisional hernias.”
Q: What signs and symptoms should employers and employees watch for?
Dr. Warmack: The most common sign is a bulge, often in the groin or around the belly button, which may or may not be accompanied by pain. In some cases, the bulge isn’t visible at all, especially in overweight individuals. Other symptoms include discomfort during physical activity, a popping sensation, and in severe cases, nausea, vomiting, and a firm, tender area that doesn’t reduce on its own. These are signs that need urgent attention.
Q: How do untreated hernias impact job performance, particularly in physically demanding roles?
Dr. Warmack: Untreated hernias can cause ongoing pain, reduced mobility and increased use of sick days. Over time, the hernia can enlarge, potentially leading to serious complications like bowel obstruction or strangulation, which often require emergency surgery and hospitalization—taking the employee out of work for extended periods.
Q: What are the long-term risks of delaying hernia treatment?
Dr. Warmack: Delaying treatment can lead to chronic pain and increased reliance on medications, some of which have serious side effects. More concerning are the risks of bowel obstruction or strangulation, which can result in sepsis and require complex surgeries. Larger, long-neglected hernias are harder and riskier to repair, and in rare cases, may become non-repairable.
Q: What does recovery from hernia surgery typically look like?
Dr. Warmack: Most of my hernia repairs are robot-assisted and minimally invasive. Using a surgical robot, the pain tends to be lower, and patients can often return to work within one to two weeks—sooner for desk jobs. However, lifting restrictions typically last for up to 10 weeks. Recovery timelines vary based on the patient’s job type and overall health, but proper planning allows for smoother recoveries and fewer complications.
Q: What workplace practices can help prevent hernias?
Dr. Warmack: Proper lifting techniques, like using your legs instead of your back, and using assistive devices or team lifting are key. Weight belts for heavy lifting and avoiding unnecessary strain also help. Ergonomics training and having safety protocols in place can significantly reduce hernia risk.
Q: Are there any misconceptions about hernias that employers and employees should be aware of?
Dr. Warmack: Yes. The biggest misconception is that hernias don’t need to be treated unless they hurt. Many patients delay care because they’re not in pain, only to later require complex, expensive and riskier surgeries. Early treatment is much easier and safer for everyone involved.
Q: What role can occupational health programs play in managing or preventing hernias?
Dr. Warmack: Occupational health teams should focus on prevention: promoting healthy body weight, smoking cessation and safe lifting techniques. They can also play a vital role in early identification and referral to specialists, which leads to better outcomes and shorter time away from work.
Q: If you could give employers one piece of advice about hernia-related workplace issues, what would it be?
Dr. Warmack: Support your employees in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Encourage weight loss programs, smoking cessation and safe work practices. Early identification and elective repair of hernias are far more cost-effective and safer than waiting for complications to arise.
Final Thoughts
As Dr. Warmack highlights, hernias are not just a medical issue; they’re also a workplace productivity and safety concern. With proactive policies and health education, employers can significantly reduce the burden of hernias among their workforce.