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What does a hernia feel like at the top of your stomach?
Q: What Does a Belly or Abdominal (Ventral) Hernia Feel Like? A: If you have a ventral hernia in the belly area, you may see or feel a bulge along the outer surface of the abdomen. Typically, patients with ventral hernias describe mild pain, aching or a pressure sensation at the site of the hernia.
How high can a hernia go?
This can be anywhere from two inches to the entire length of the abdomen. Second, a hernia can be repaired laparoscopically which involves multiple small incisions and a camera to repair the hernia.
Can you go over a hernia?
Hernias don't go away on their own. Only surgery can repair a hernia. Many people are able to delay surgery for months or even years. And some people may never need surgery for a small hernia.
What can be mistaken for hernia?
What else can be mistaken for a hernia? While a hernia is the cause for most people who experience lumps in their abdomen, there are several other possibilities such as a hematoma, lipoma, a gynecological issue in women, or an undescended testicle in newborn boys. In rare cases, a lump may indicate a tumor.
How serious is a high hernia?
A small hiatal hernia usually doesn't cause problems. You may never know you have one unless your doctor discovers it when checking for another condition. But a large hiatal hernia can allow food and acid to back up into your esophagus, leading to heartburn.
Does a high hernia hurt?
A hiatal hernia by itself rarely causes symptoms. Pain and discomfort are due to the upward flow of stomach acid, air, or bile.
What happens if a hernia is left too long?
If hernia is left untreated, the size of protruding intestine might get bigger and become strangulated leading to the reduction of blood flow to surrounding tissue.
What happens if a hiatal hernia is left untreated?
If left untreated, Hiatal hernias can rarely become trapped in the chest or strangulated—which means the hernia begins to cut off blood to the entrapped intestine. Strangulated Hiatal hernias can cause sudden pain in the chest and requires immediate medical attention.
How do I know if my hernia needs surgery?
You may have a hernia if you have swelling and a bulge that is able to be “pushed back” into your abdomen. If it continues to grow, you will need to have hernia surgery in order to repair it....Symptoms include:Nausea.Vomiting.Fever.Intensifying pain.A bulge that turns red or purple.
Can an xray tell if you have a hernia?
The abdominal X-ray should not be relied on to detect hernias. If obstruction is suspected the hernial orifices must be examined clinically.
What are the 3 types of hernias?
Common types of hernias include umbilical hernia, inguinal hernia, and femoral hernia.
Do hernias hurt to touch?
Hernias could cause abdominal pain The area may be sensitive to the touch, even if you don't have a noticeable hernia bulge. Pain can feel like a burning or aching sensation, which may get worse with strain.
How do I know if my hernia is severe?
Seek immediate care if a hernia bulge turns red, purple or dark or if you notice any other signs or symptoms of a strangulated hernia. See your doctor if you have a painful or noticeable bulge in your groin on either side of your pubic bone.
What is considered a big hernia?
Umbilical hernias are common and come in many sizes ranging from small (less than 1 cm) to medium (1 cm to 3 cm) to large (greater than 3cm).
When is a hernia an emergency?
Symptoms of a hernia in need of emergency treatment include: Severe pain, swelling or redness at the hernia site. Hernia bulge growing quickly. Nausea and/or vomiting.
What size hiatal hernia needs surgery?
In fact, hiatal hernia problems typically only present in hernias larger than 6 cm or 2.5 inches. So long as your hernia is smaller than 6 cm or 2.5 inches, it should be manageable with self-care and medication.
How to tell if a hernia is a hernia?
A: When most hernias start, the internal tissue that pushes through the muscle gap is usually fat. But it’s also possible for part of the bowel to protrude through the opening. The risk of this is very low, but when it happens, it needs emergency repair. Seek immediate medical attention if you have: 1 A painful bulge that doesn’t reduce in size when you lay down and rest 2 Worsening pain 3 Nausea and/or vomiting 4 Difficulty having a bowel movement 5 Bloating 6 Racing heart rate 7 Fever
What does a ventral hernia feel like?
Q: What Does a Belly or Abdominal (Ventral) Hernia Feel Like? A: If you have a ventral hernia in the belly area, you may see or feel a bulge along the outer surface of the abdomen. Typically, patients with ventral hernias describe mild pain, aching or a pressure sensation at the site of the hernia.
How long does it take to heal a ventral hernia?
However, repairing more complicated hernias may require a hospital stay of one to five days.
How long does it take to recover from an inguinal hernia surgery?
Minimally invasive robotic surgery (similar to laparoscopy, but surgeons use a controller to move instruments) is also an option. With minimally invasive surgery, patients are back to their regular activity within two weeks. Open surgery is the other treatment option — recovery takes four to six weeks.
What is the thinnest part of the abdominal wall?
Pregnancy is a risk factor that makes women more susceptible to developing another type of ventral hernia near the belly button, called an umbilical hernia. The umbilicus is the thinnest part of the abdominal wall. It’s a very common site to develop a hernia, whether you’re a man or a woman.
Where do hernias occur?
There are different types of hernias, but the most common hernias occur in the belly or groin areas .
Can ventral hernias be caused by abdominal surgery?
A: Anyone can develop a ventral hernia, but those who’ve had abdominal surgery have a higher risk. If you have an incision that disrupts the abdominal wall, the scar will never be as strong as the original tissue. This makes it more likely that you’ll develop a hernia, known as an incisional hernia , along the incision area. This occurs in up to 30% of patients who have open abdominal surgery.
How to treat a hernia?
However, the only way to truly treat the hernia is to perform surgery.
Why do women have more hernias than men?
Women develop this hernia type 10 times more than men, likely because the shape of their pelvis.
Why is it important to get a femoral hernia examined?
It’s important to get a femoral hernia examined. If the hernia is strangulated, the risk of death increases 10 times , according to an article published in the journal Annals of Surgery.
What is a hernia in medical terms?
Hernias by Picture. A hernia occur s when a piece of skin or organ tissue (like the intestine) bulges through the outer tissue layer that normally holds the area in . Several different hernia types exist — and some can be extremely painful and medical emergencies. Keep reading to find out more about hernias, plus view images of some ...
Why do hiatal hernias need surgery?
Other hiatal hernia types may require surgical repair because the intestines or a large stomach portion is going through the diaphragm.
What is the rate of incarceration of an incisional hernia?
The rate of incarceration (abnormal confinement of tissue) of an incisional hernia is anywhere from 6 to 15 percent, according to the 2018 review cited previously.
How many abdominal operations have an incisional hernia?
An incisional hernia occurs in about 4 to 10 percent of abdominal operations, according to a 2018 review published in the journal Deutsches Arzteblatt International.
Where do hernias occur?
They typically occur between the breastbone and belly button.
Why are hernias more common in women than men?
These types of hernias are much more common in women than in men, because these hernias are often the result of pregnancy and childbirth. Weakness in the lower groin allows the intestinal sac to drop in the femoral canal, where the hernia develops.
Why is the inguinal canal prone to hernia development?
This area is prone to hernia development because in men, the inguinal canal was home to the testicles before they descended, leaving a natural defect called the internal inguinal ring that can lead to a hernia if it doesn’t seal properly.
What is the cause of a hernia in the upper chest?
Hiatal Hernia – Location: Upper chest. A hiatal hernia is caused by weakness in the diaphragm, which separates the chest cavity from the abdomen. These hernias can cause acid to seep into the esophagus, causing a heartburn-like feeling. Surgery is typically needed to correct a hernia in this area.
What is a hernia in men?
A hernia occurs when tissue pushes through the muscle wall that’s holding it in. They can occur in a variety of different locations in both men and women, but some locations are more common than others. Today, we take a look at the most common locations for hernias.
Where is the inguinal hernia located?
Inguinal Hernia – Location: Lower abdomen above the leg crease. The most common type of hernia is known as an inguinal hernia, and they make up roughly 66 percent of all hernias. Inguinal hernias occur in your abdominal wall, in an area called your inguinal canal.
Is a hernia more common in children?
This area is naturally weaker as it was once home to your umbilical cord. These hernias are more common in infants and children, but they can also develop in adults, especially in overweight or pregnant adults.
Where do hernias occur?
Most hernias occur within the abdominal cavity, between the chest and the hips. The most common forms of hernia are: Inguinal hernia: In men, the inguinal canal is a passageway for the spermatic cord and blood vessels leading to the testicles. In women, the inguinal canal contains the round ligament that gives support for the womb.
How do you know if you have a hernia?
More symptoms of a hernia include: Swelling or bulge in the groin or scrotum (the pouch that contains the testicles). Increased pain at the site of the bulge. Pain while lifting.
What is the term for a hernia that pushes through the abdomen?
Umbilical hernia: Fatty tissue or part of the intestine pushes through the abdomen near the navel (belly button). Hiatal (hiatus) hernia: Part of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity through an opening in the diaphragm (the horizontal sheet of muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen). Other types of hernias include:
What is a hernia in muscle tissue?
Hernia. A hernia happens when an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in your muscle or tissue. There are several types of hernia that you can experience including, inguinal hernias, femoral hernias, umbilical hernias and hiatal hernias. If you have a hernia, it’s important to treat it quickly.
Why do hernias recur after surgery?
Hernias may recur regardless of the repair operations. This is sometimes caused by inherent tissue weakness or protracted healing. Smoking and obesity are also major risk factors for hernia recurrence.
Which hernia protrudes through the abdomen?
Incisional hernia: Tissue protrudes through the site of an abdominal scar from a remote abdominal or pelvic operation. Epigastric hernia: Fatty tissue protrudes through the abdominal area between the navel and lower part of the sternum (breastbone). Spigelian hernia: The intestine pushes through the abdomen at the side of the abdominal muscle, ...
Which type of hernia is most common in men?
This is the most common type of hernia, and affects men more often than women. Femoral hernia: Fatty tissue or part of the intestine protrudes into the groin at the top of the inner thigh. Femoral hernias are much less common than inguinal hernias and mainly affect older women.
Where do hernias occur?
Inguinal hernias occur when part of the membrane lining the abdominal cavity (omentum) or intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdomen — often along the inguinal canal, which carries the spermatic cord in men.
What happens if you don't push a hernia in?
If you aren't able to push the hernia in, the contents of the hernia may be trapped (incarcerated) in the abdominal wall. An incarcerated hernia can become strangulated, which cuts off the blood flow to the tissue that's trapped. A strangulated hernia can be life-threatening if it isn't treated.
Why do inguinal hernias develop?
Other inguinal hernias develop later in life when muscles weaken or deteriorate due to aging, strenuous physical activity or coughing that accompanies smoking. Weaknesses can also occur in the abdominal wall later in life, especially after an injury or abdominal surgery.
How do you know if you have an inguinal hernia?
Inguinal hernia signs and symptoms include: A bulge in the area on either side of your pubic bone, which becomes more obvious when you're upright, especially if you cough or strain. A burning or aching sensation at the bulge. Pain or discomfort in your groin, especially when bending over, coughing or lifting.
What is the term for a hernia in the abdomen?
Close. Inguinal hernia. Inguinal hernia. Inguinal hernias occur when part of the membrane lining the abdominal cavity (omentum) or intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdomen — often along the inguinal canal, which carries the spermatic cord in men. An inguinal her nia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, ...
Why do babies have hernias?
Inguinal hernias in newborns and children result from a weakness in the abdominal wall that's present at birth. Sometimes the hernia will be visible only when an infant is crying, coughing or straining during a bowel movement. He or she might be irritable and have less appetite than usual.
What to do if a hernia bulge turns red?
Seek immediate care if a hernia bulge turns red, purple or dark or if you notice any other signs or symptoms of a strangulated hernia.
What happens when a hernia gets bigger?
As hernias get bigger, they become more susceptible to incarceration and strangulation. The latter usually involves blood being stopped from flowing freely to the tissue, which can lead to tissue death and gangrene. Such an event can lead to parts of organs dying or rupturing—both of which will usually require emergency surgery. ...
What to do if you suspect a hernia?
If you suspect you have a hernia, at the very least, you should schedule an appointment with a specialist.
What are the Dangers of Not Treating a Hernia?
Some people assume that just because they aren’t experiencing any significant or bothersome symptoms, the hernia they are suffering from must not be too big of a problem. Such a view may even lead these people to believe that ignoring the hernia is best.
How do you know if you have a strangulated hernia?
How do you know if you are suffering from a strangulated hernia? First of all, you will feel very sick and the symptoms you will be facing may include intense pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever . If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms and you have a hernia, seek immediate medical attention.
Why do people get hernias?
As for why hernias develop, they may arise because of previous surgery, injury, disease, heavy lifting or pregnancy; in most cases, hernias are idio pathic (that is, no cause can be identified) – and result from a naturally occurring weak spot in the abdominal wall that a person is born with.. Since anyone can develop a hernia, it’s important ...
Can hernias get worse?
Hernias are no different than other problems we experience in life—they tend to get worse or larger if not addressed adequately. Mild symptoms can turn into more serious ones, possibly spiraling into seriously underestimated complications.
Can a hernia grow smaller?
In some cases, hernias cease from growing, but they never get smaller. In some extreme cases, hernias can become so large that the abdominal cavity can collapse – making repair much more difficult. At any rate, it’s better to get a hernia treated while it is relatively small than to wait until it grows in size.
What are the symptoms of a hernia?
Most small hiatal hernias cause no signs or symptoms. But larger hiatal hernias can cause: 1 Heartburn 2 Regurgitation of food or liquids into the mouth 3 Backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus (acid reflux) 4 Difficulty swallowing 5 Chest or abdominal pain 6 Feeling full soon after you eat 7 Shortness of breath 8 Vomiting of blood or passing of black stools, which may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding
Why does my stomach bulge up?
Causes. A hiatal hernia occurs when weakened muscle tissue allows your stomach to bulge up through your diaphragm. It's not always clear why this happens. But a hiatal hernia might be caused by: Age-related changes in your diaphragm. Injury to the area, for example, after trauma or certain types of surgery.
What is the term for a hernia in the upper abdomen?
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of your stomach bulges through the large muscle separating your abdomen and chest (diaphragm).
What does it mean when you vomit blood?
Vomiting of blood or passing of black stools, which may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding
Can a small hernia cause problems?
A small hiatal hernia usually doesn't cause problems. You may never know you have one unless your doctor discovers it when checking for another condition.
Symptoms of flank hernia
This type of hernia may go unnoticed in the early stages. Symptoms commonly experienced by patients with a flank hernia include:
Causes
They are typically the result of blunt force trauma to the abdominal wall. However, they can also occur due to weakness in the abdominal muscles after a surgical incision. Sometimes, the tissues that were cut while making a surgical incision do not heal completely after the procedure. When this happens, a gap forms.
What to expect at your appointment
During your appointment, your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and will perform a physical examination. In order to make a definitive diagnosis and assess the severity of the hernia, your doctor may prescribe one of the following diagnostic techniques:
Treatments
These do not heal on their own and can cause serious health complications if left untreated. Surgical intervention is required to repair.
Our providers
Getting the care you need starts with seeing one of our hernia specialists.
What kind of doctor treats hernias?
The doctors who will be well qualified to discuss this issue in greater detail with you will include your primary care doctor or a general surgeon. There are two basic types of hernia in the groin.
Do men and women have hernias?
These are equally common in both men and women. Both types of hernia generally require surgical repair, as there is the risk that the content of the hernia can become pinched off and have their blood flow reduced, which can be very serious.
What is a hernia?
- Typically, protective layers of tissue called fascia hold organs and tissues in place. They act as …
But sometimes the fascia can develop weak points. Instead of holding the tissue in, it allows the tissue to bulge or protrude through the weakened area. Healthcare providers call this a hernia.
Incisional hernia picture
- What it is
An incisional hernia can occur after you’ve had surgery on your abdomen. The condition is most likely to occur when a person has a midline abdominal incision. With this type of incision, there’s often greater pressure on the abdominal muscles at that location, according to an article publish… - How it’s treated
The rate of incarceration (abnormal confinement of tissue) of an incisional hernia is anywhere from 6 to 15 percent, according to the 2018 review cited previously. If an incisional hernia is causing symptoms or appears to be at greater risk for incarceration, a healthcare provider will us…
Hiatal hernia picture
- What it is
A hiatal hernia occurs when a part of the upper portion of the stomach goes up through the diaphragm. Normally, the diaphragm keeps the stomach firmly in place, but defects can develop that allow the stomach to slide upward. Different hiatal hernia types exist. The most common is … - How it’s treated
If a person has severe GERD, problems swallowing, or frequent stomach ulcers because of a type I hiatal hernia, their healthcare provider may recommend surgery to repair it. Other hiatal hernia types may require surgical repair because the intestines or a large stomach portion is going thro…
Femoral hernia picture
- What it is
A femoral hernia occurs in the lower portion of the pelvis, near the inner thigh and usually on the right side of the body. Sometimes a healthcare provider may initially diagnose a hernia as an inguinal hernia. However, after a closer look, they realize its lower location indicates it’s a femor… - How it’s treated
Femoral hernias have a higher rate of strangulation, which means the tissue cuts off blood flow to the intestine that bulges through. An estimated 15 to 20 percent of them result in strangulation, according to StatPearls. You can also have a femoral hernia and an inguinal one. As a result, m…
Epigastric hernia picture
- What it is
Epigastric hernias occur slightly above the belly button and below the rib cage. An epigastric hernia may occur in as much as 10 percent of the population, including children and adults, according to an article in the journal Hernia. While these types of hernias don’t always cause sy… - How it’s treated
Surgical repair is the only true “cure” for an epigastric hernia. A healthcare provider may not always recommend treating the hernia if it isn’t causing symptoms and is fairly small in size.
Umbilical hernia picture
- What it is
An umbilical hernia is a hernia that occurs near the belly button. The condition occurs commonly in children, usually going away by age 4. In adults, an estimated 90 percent are acquired, usually due to pressure from coughing or straining when having a bowel movement, according to the A… - How it’s treated
If a person can push the hernia back in when it comes out (this a referred to as a “reducible” hernia), a healthcare provider may not recommend surgery to repair it. However, the only way to truly treat the hernia is to perform surgery.
Inguinal hernia picture
- What it is
An inguinal hernia occurs when there’s a weak portion in the lower abdominal wall. Usually, fat or the small intestine can bulge through. Some women can have an ovary protrude through the abdominal wall. Men can have an inguinal hernia that affects their testes or scrotum. Most inguin… - How it’s treated
A healthcare provider will most likely recommend surgery to repair an inguinal hernia. This reduces the risk that the hernia will become strangulated and damage the bowel or other surrounding organs. If a person doesn’t have symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend …
The takeaway
- A hernia can cause different types of symptoms.
Symptoms can range from a small lump you can feel sometimes (usually when you stand up) to an area that causes pain because the tissue twists around or loses blood flow when it goes through the fascia. - You can also have a hernia that you can’t feel, such as a hiatal hernia in the gastrointestinal tract.
A variety of hernia types exist. In most cases, surgery is the only way to treat the hernia.