What are the Symptoms of a Hernia?

A hernia is a painful condition, so you no doubt want a quick answer to that question, “What are the Symptoms of a Hernia?” Unfortunately, this answer will greatly depend on your own assessment of yourself. In order to correctly identify a hernia, there are a few specific signs you should be looking for. If you are in intense pain and are seriously concerned, talk to your doctor. This article is solely intended to assist people dealing with minimal pain and are simply curious. It is not meant to be used in place of an accurate, medical evaluation.

What is a Hernia?

In the abdominal cavity, the internal organs and structures are held in place by the abdominal muscles. Through typical use, the abdominal muscles, or abs, have a natural tension that can hold the contents of the abdominal cavity well. However, whether due to lack of use or overexertion, the integrity of the abdominal wall gives way and a small subsection of the intestines, or some other mass of tissue, protrudes out. This protrusion can potentially cause serious problems. For example, a hernia can lead to an intestinal blockage. This blockage is a serious issue and would require emergency medical attention.

The most important factor in the safety and recovery from a hernia is early identification. If closely monitored by a qualified medical professional from early on, the risk of hernia complication is greatly reduced.

Bulging

One of the most commonly noticed signs of a hernia is bulging. Due to the very nature of how a hernia works, the affected area will bulge, creating a lump that is the hernia itself. Identifying this lump is one of the most important diagnostic tools available. The exact location of the herniated lump will vary depending on the diagnosis. In general, the hernia will be in the region after which it is named. An umbilical hernia, for instance, is located in the umbilical region at the belly button.

A femoral hernia can be found in the inner thigh area. An inguinal hernia is a hernia in the groin. Surgical hernias can also develop at the site of a relatively recent surgical incision.

Swelling

Another diagnostic sign of a hernia is swelling. Although easily confused with the bulging mentioned above, swelling is a separate and distinct symptom altogether. Swelling involves more than just visible confirmation. Swelling of the affected area will also bring redness, warmth, and discomfort when touched.

Pain

The pain associated with a hernia is different than the pain caused by other means. When dealing with a hernia, the level of pain will vary depending on position and motion. For example, most people complain of greater pain when bending, lifting, or even coughing. The pain that hernias produce can vary from person a person, but typically is a dull ache in the region affected.

The difficulty with dealing with hernia pain is it the pain is not constant. Many times, people feel the intense pain that comes from exerting pressure on a hernia and schedule an appointment with a doctor. However, by the time they go to the doctor, it has been long enough that they forget the exact nature of the pain they’re dealing with this can make it difficult to relay necessary information to your doctor.

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References:

https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/aba5300

https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/types-of-hernias#1

https://nyulangone.org/conditions/hernia-in-adults/types

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inguinal-hernia/symptoms-causes/syc-20351547