Hernias develop gradually and often present symptoms that most people dismiss as minor annoyances.
Abdominal pain or constant pain in the groin can be symptoms of a hernia, a common condition in both men and women. According to doctors, hernias cause extreme discomfort and do not go away on their own. However, they can be surgically repaired and to do so, it is necessary to recognize the signs and symptoms in time.
Experts say hernias develop gradually and often cause symptoms that most people dismiss as minor annoyances. However, these seemingly minor problems can develop into serious health issues.
What is a hernia??
Harvard Health says the abdomen is covered in layers of muscle and strong tissue that help move and protect internal organs. A hernia is an opening in this muscular wall that allows the contents of the abdomen to bulge outward. There are different types of hernias, but the most common occur in the abdomen or groin areas.
According to experts, anyone can develop a hernia, but more than 30 percent of those who have undergone abdominal surgery are at increased risk.
Signs and symptoms of hernia
Doctors say it’s important to understand that both men and women can develop hernias and that the popular belief that only men get them is wrong. Women are likely to be underdiagnosed because they have different symptoms than men. Some signs and symptoms to look out for include:
A noticeable lump or bump in the abdomen
Doctors say the most common symptom of a hernia is a bulge in the affected area, the abdomen. The bulge may go away when you lie down and you may notice it mainly by touch when you are standing or bending over.
Persistent pain
Hernias cause constant, recurring pain and discomfort in the area surrounding the bulge. They range from dull to sharp, debilitating, stabbing sensations, and are made worse by physical activities such as bending, lifting, or even standing.
Swelling
Hernias cause severe swelling by changing the shape and arrangement of the organs in your abdomen, trapping gas in the gastrointestinal tract and increasing pressure. Some types of hernias, such as abdominal and inguinal hernias, also cause a feeling of fullness as if you’ve eaten a lot, as well as heartburn, acid reflux, and chest pain.
Difficulty urinating
One of the most dangerous aspects of hernias is that they negatively affect the ability to urinate or defecate. Doctors say that over time, it becomes a habitual feature if the intestines are subjected to pressure that negatively affects involuntary peristalsis.
Burning sensation
Another critical symptom to look out for is a burning sensation, which can be extremely uncomfortable at the site of the hernia. Doctors say the sensation can be constant and is aggravated by activities that put pressure on the affected area.
Shortness of breath
In some cases, when a hernia starts to get out of control, it can cause shortness of breath as it puts pressure on the diaphragm or lungs. If you experience shortness of breath along with other hernia symptoms, it is critical that you see your doctor right away.
Nausea and vomiting
When a hernia becomes trapped in a weak spot in the abdominal wall, it begins to obstruct the intestine, causing severe pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Fever
Recurrent high fever is also another important sign of a strangulated hernia that should not be overlooked.
Constant weakness
A feeling of muscle fatigue and weakness in the upper leg and groin can be a sign of a hernia.
Swelling in the groin
In men, an advanced hernia can cause a painful swelling in the groin or scrotum. According to experts, it may be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or a visible lump, which becomes more painful with physical effort.
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