When should I worry about an incisional hernia?
Lump or protrusion in the abdomen at or near the site of a previous incision; the patient may be asked to stand and cough, which tends to make the hernia more pronounced. Nausea, vomiting, fever or rapid heart rate. Pain in the abdomen, especially around the protrusion.
Can incisional hernia be treated without surgery?
If an incisional hernia is small, not causing any problems, and has a low chance of causing complications, people may not need surgery. In rare cases, the blood supply can become cut off to the protruding abdominal tissue. This is a medical emergency, and people will need immediate medical treatment.
Should incisional hernia be repaired?
Incisional hernias will not repair themselves without surgery and most patients will choose to have them fixed. Surgical repair is often recommended for hernias that are enlarging and painful.
What does incisional hernia look like?
The most noticeable symptom of an incisional hernia is a bulge near the incision site. It’s often most visible when you strain your muscles, such as when you stand up, lift something, or cough. Besides a visible bulge, incisional hernias might also cause: nausea and vomiting.
What happens if you wait too long to get hernia surgery?
While it may not be causing trouble now, it is very likely that it could lead to more serious complications later if it is not repaired. One of those complications is strangulation. This occurs when the bulging tissue is squeezed by the muscle wall. As a result, the blood supply is cut off and the tissue begins to die.
Can incisional hernias get bigger?
Incisional hernias may occur months or years after an abdominal operation. You can usually only see a small lump or swelling near the site of the scar at first. The lump appears when you cough or strain, and then goes away again. Over time, though, it might get bigger and start hurting.
What is the most common incisional hernia?
Incisional hernia refers to abdominal wall hernia at the site of a previous surgical incision. It is a type of ventral hernia. Midline incisional hernias are more common than other sites.
What activities should be avoided with a hernia?
Exercises to avoid when you have a hernia
- Avoid heavy exertion exercises, such as weightlifting, that cause you to strain.
- Do not over stretch your abdominal wall.
- Avoid core exercises such as planks, sit-ups, crunches and some Pilates exercises.
- Stay away from high impact physical activities or contact sports.