Hernia is an abdominal condition in which part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the muscles of the abdomen. This weak area is known as the diaphragm, a thin muscle that separates the chest and the abdominal region.
A hernia may be painful and can prevent you from eating or urinating. It is important to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis. Although not all hernias require surgery, some can become infected, cause problems, or lead to complications. The symptoms of hernias depend on the type of hernia, the location of the hernia, and your overall health.
Pain and a bulge are some of the most common hernia symptoms. These are caused by the tension on the muscles of the abdomen and the internal organs. In some cases, a hernia can be life-threatening, especially if the hernia blocks the blood supply to an intestine or bladder. Getting prompt surgery is necessary in cases of severe hernias.
Other hernia symptoms include constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Constipation occurs when the intestine is blocked by the hernia. If the hernia is large, it can also make you feel as though you have to strain to move the bowel. You can get hernias in your groin, scrotum, esophagus, or abdominal region.
Some hernias may lead to a painful condition called strangulation. If the hernia becomes infected, it can cut off the blood supply to the bowel, causing vomiting. There are signs of strangulation, which are easy to recognize, and you should get medical attention as soon as possible.
Hernias can develop slowly over time. They are commonly found in children and women, although they can also occur in adults. Most hernias are surgically repaired. Open hernia repair is the most common procedure and involves the surgeon making a cut near the hernia to repair it. However, laparoscopic surgery is sometimes used in patients with hernias.
Hernias can be caused by certain activities, such as heavy lifting. They can occur during pregnancy, as well. Pregnancy can weaken the abdominal muscles and make them less likely to be able to prevent a hernia from developing.
During hernia repairs, a mesh may be implanted to provide more support. This may be done through an outpatient procedure or an inpatient surgery. Depending on the size of the hernia, the surgery may be performed using a barium X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan.
Depending on the hernia, some patients may not feel any pain at all. For others, the hernia may cause mild pain, such as numbness or a pressure sensation. Those who experience pain or a bulge in their groin should see a hernia specialist.
Pain is a hernia symptom that can be acute or chronic. It is not uncommon for patients to suffer from chronic pain, which can interfere with their everyday activities. Chronic hernia pain can cause throbbing, burning, and aching. Patients who experience persistent abdominal pain, even when they don’t do any physical activity, should see a hernia specialist for an evaluation.
