Signs Your Hernia Needs Surgery and Why Waiting Can Be Risky

Initially, a hernia might only look like a slight bulge or a tender sore spot. However, ignoring it could potentially trigger more serious complications. Many individuals attempt to live with their hernia and address the symptoms with lifestyle modifications and through the use of an abdominal binder or pain medications. The reality is hernias almost never go away on their own, and the longer an individual waits can inadvertently be detrimental to their health. Knowing when your hernia requires surgery and the potential complications of an untreated hernia can help you keep your health protected.

What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. The most common types include:

• Inguinal hernia (groin area)
• Umbilical hernia (around the belly button)
• Hiatal hernia (upper stomach pushing into chest)
• Incisional hernia (through a surgical scar)

Although hernias may initially be painless or mildly uncomfortable, they can worsen over time especially if untreated.

Common Symptoms That Indicate a Hernia

Hernia symptoms can vary depending on type and severity, but here are the common warning signs:

• A visible or palpable bulge in the abdomen or groin, especially when coughing or standing
• Discomfort or aching sensation at the bulge site
• Pain during physical activity, lifting, or bending
• A heavy or dragging feeling in the abdomen
• Swelling or tenderness around the bulge
• Heartburn, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing (hiatal hernia)

If you experience any of these symptoms consistently, it’s important to consult a specialist. But beyond these, there are specific signs your hernia may need surgery immediately.

Signs Your Hernia Needs Surgery

While small, painless hernias can sometimes be monitored, surgery is often the only permanent solution. You may require surgical intervention if:

• The hernia is growing in size
• Pain becomes sharp, persistent, or disrupts daily activities
• There’s nausea, vomiting, or signs of bowel obstruction
• The hernia bulge becomes firm, red, or discolored
• You can’t push the bulge back in (non-reducible hernia)
• You develop fever or signs of infection near the bulge

These symptoms may indicate complications like incarceration (trapped tissue) or strangulation (cut-off blood supply), both of which are medical emergencies.

Risks of Untreated Hernia

Ignoring or postponing treatment for a hernia can lead to life-threatening complications. Here's a look at some of the complications of an untreated hernia:

1. Incarceration

The hernia becomes stuck and cannot be pushed back in. The result can be extreme swelling, pain, and digestive upset.

2. Strangulation

The most dangerous complication is if blood flow to the organ trapped by the hernia (usually part of the intestine) is disrupted by the hernia. Potentially this would lead to the death of tissue, infection, and eventually sepsis.

3. Bowel Obstruction

A hernia may block the intestines, causing:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal bloating
• Constipation or inability to pass gas
• Severe cramping

4. Chronic Pain and Disability

As hernias enlarge, they often cause long-term pain and restrict mobility or physical activity.

5. Risk Increases With Age or Activity

Lifting heavy objects; excessive straining to have a bowel movement; or chronic coughing can all exacerbate the hernia over time. Additionally, muscular weakening that accompanies aging can also hasten the growth of a hernia and its resulting complications.

Why Early Surgery is Safer and More Effective

Elective surgery for a hernia, planned before complications arise, is generally a safe and minimally invasive procedure. The surgeon is likely to perform laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery, which would help to minimize recovery time, scarring, and discomfort after surgery.

Waiting until a hernia is an emergency can greatly increase some surgical risks. Emergency surgery tends to be more complicated, there is a greater chance of infection, hospital stays are generally longer, and recovery may take longer. 

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs

Most patients as they contemplate surgery will delay because of fear and misinformation. However, the truth is:

• Every day you wait increases the chance of complications. 
• A simple outpatient procedure today can prevent a serious emergency tomorrow. 
• Most patients will have surgery done with minimally invasive techniques that allows for a quick recovery and minimal pain. 

Trust GEM Hospital for Safe & Specialized Hernia Treatment

At GEM Hospital, our expert surgeons and gastro specialists will treat you with world-class hernia care and the latest minimally invasive technologies. Our team is motivated to ensure that whether you are looking for a diagnosis, seeking a second opinion, or wanting a surgical correction, you will be in good hands at GEM Hospital. 

Don't wait for the symptoms to worsen. Book your appointment and let our expert team get you back to function in a way that is faster and safer than you may have thought. 

Book Appointment at GEM Hospital