When you have a hernia, part of your intestines are protruding through an area of weakness in your abdominal muscles. A hernia can be a very painful condition. The pain may be amplified if you cough, if you lift a heavy object, or if you bend over. It’s important to be aware of the hernia symptoms if you are concerned you may develop one.
Hernias do not fix themselves on their own. Not all hernias are dangerous. However, some hernias can result in serious complications that may put your life at risk. If your hernia is causing you severe pain or if your hernia is getting bigger, our doctor may recommend some type of surgery to fix the hernia. It is encouraging to know that hernia surgeries are common, they are very safe, and there are usually little to no side effects involved.
If you have a hernia around your groin, you will likely notice a bulge on either side of your pubic bone. The bulge will become more apparent when you’re standing. If you cough or if you exert force, you may actually notice a movement around the bulge. This is one the reasons why when you go to the doctor and they check you for a hernia, they touch you on either side of your pubic bone and ask you to cough.
You may also have an ache or a burning sensation around the area of the herniation. If you bend over or if you try to lift something heavy, you’re going to probably feel the hernia as well. You may feel that your pelvic floor is not as strong as it once was. If the hernia protrudes into the scrotum, you will notice a swelling and a pain around your testicles.
A strangulated hernia is a little bit more complicated. With a strangulated hernia, parts of your intestines become cut off from blood flow. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom. You may have a strain-related hernia if you are vomiting or if you feel nauseous in addition to having other hernia symptoms. You may feel a sudden burst of pain that seems to get worse. You may not be able to have a bowel movement or pass gas. You may experience a fever or a sudden increase in your symptoms. If any of this is true, you should contact our office immediately.
If you have a hernia, set up a time to visit Surgical Associates of South Florida in Miami. Hernia surgery is relatively routine. The sooner the hernia and the related hernia symptoms are addressed, the better the long-term prognosis will be. Contact us today to book an appointment.
