Weight Loss Surgeon
What Does Hernia Pain Feel Like?
- Dr. Ravi Rao
- March 20, 2024
Hernias occur when internal organs or other body parts protrude through the wall of muscle or tissue that typically surrounds them. An abdominal hernia usually occurs between the chest and hips. There are four types of hernias: inguinal, femoral, umbilical, and hiatal. What are the causes of hernias, and what does hernia pain feel like? Keep reading.
What Causes A Hernia?
Inguinal and femoral hernias can occur due to weakened muscles present since birth or due to aging and repeated abdominal or groin strains. A strain on the bowels may result from physical exertion, obesity, pregnancy, frequent coughing, or constipation. An umbilical hernia occurs when an adult strains the abdominal area, This person typically is overweight, has a long-term cough, or has just given birth. Hiatal hernias have not been entirely explained, but the age-related weakness of the diaphragm or increased abdominal pressure could contribute.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Hernia?
An abdominal or groin hernia can cause a noticeable lump or bulge that can be pushed back in or disappear when lying down. A lump may reappear after it has been pushed in if you laugh, cry, cough, strain during a bowel movement, or do physical activity. Hernias can cause the following symptoms:
- An uncomfortable bulge or swelling in the groin or scrotum
- Increasing pain around the bulge, that (size and pain) increases over time
- Lifting pains
- A dull ache
- Symptoms of bowel obstruction or a feeling of fullness
- Your groin feels tight, sensitive, or weak
- Protrusions that descend into the scrotum cause swelling and discomfort around the testicles
A Hiatal hernia does not produce external bulges. Instead, one may experience chest pain, heartburn, indigestion, difficulty swallowing, frequent regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.
What Does A Belly Or Abdominal Hernia Pain Feel Like?
What does a hernia pain feel like? The outer surface of the abdomen may bulge if you have a ventral hernia in the belly area. A ventral hernia typically causes mild pain, aching, or a pressure sensation at the site. The discomfort will worsen if you lift heavy objects, run, or bend over during bowel movements. Some patients have a bulge but are not uncomfortable.
Who Is Most Likely To Develop A Ventral Hernia?
The risk of developing a ventral hernia is higher for those who have undergone abdominal surgery. You will never be able to have a scar as strong as the original tissue when you have an incision that disrupts the abdominal wall. The incision area is more likely to develop a hernia, called an incisional hernia. Up to 30% of patients undergoing open abdominal surgery experience this. The umbilicus is the thinnest part of the abdominal wall. Whether you are a man or a woman, this is a very common site for hernias to develop. In addition to ventral hernias near the belly button, umbilical hernias are more likely to develop during pregnancy.
How Can You Tell If You Have A Hernia Emergency?
- Painful bulges that don’t reduce when resting
- Intensifying pain
- Vomiting or nausea
- Excessive gas
- Bowel movement issues
- Racing heart
- Fever
Takeaway
While many hernia types aren’t considered dangerous, they can lead to life-threatening situations if left untreated. Consult your doctor if you suspect you have a hernia. They can provide you with a customized solution.
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