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What Will Happen If You Leave Hernia Untreated
Hernias-be it small or large- can cause extreme discomfort and pain while you are lifting a heavy object or straining during a bowel movement.
Dr. Rakesh Mittal
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Usually, a hernia is a serious condition that should not be left untreated. However, some people don’t experience any symptoms until the condition has turned severe.
The two main complications that occur when hernias are left untreated- obstruction and strangulation.
Table of Contents
Complications That Arise When Hernia is Left Untreated
Obstructed Hernia
This is the most common complication of hernia that occurs. When the hernia is obstructed, a part of the intestine that has protruded through the opening gets trapped. Hence, the name is “obstructed” hernia.
In the medical terms, it is also known as an incarcerated hernia.
Symptoms of obstructed hernia are-
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Lump around the groin
Strangulated Hernia
This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the blood flow to the trapped part of the intestine or other tissue is cut off.
Symptoms of strangulated hernia are-
- Feeling of nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Sudden pain in the abdomen or groin that gets worse over time
- A lump that develops and turns red, purple or dark
- A lump that grows quickly
- Becomes firm with time
- Unable to pass stool or gas
A strangulated hernia requires immediate medical attention as this can lead to other fatal conditions such as intestinal perforation, shock or even gangrene.
When the blood supply to the tissue is cut off, it releases toxic substances into the blood that can lead to sepsis and eventually death.
The above complications should not be left unattended as these are medical conditions that require immediate medical help.
Difference between Strangulated and Incarcerated Hernia
The obstruction of hernia, also known as incarceration, is the stage that occurs before strangulation.
When the protruded tissues become trapped such that it cannot be moved back into its place, it is known as obstructed. When this obstructed hernia is left untreated, it leads to a strangulated hernia. This implies that a strangulated hernia cannot cause an incarcerated one.
Also Read: Things To Do and Avoid During Hernia
Complications That Can Occur After Hernia Repair Surgery
According to a study published in the Journal of American College of Surgeons, 27 percent of the people who underwent a hernia repair on an emergency basis developed complications, compared to those who went for an elective repair.
Here are a few common complications that occur after hernia repair surgery-
Recurrence of hernia
Even after one has undergone surgery, the risk of hernia occurring again remains high. The recurrence of hernia becomes high as the area is still weak and still healing.
Infection
There is always a risk of infection with any kind of surgical procedure. The chances of getting an infection are much higher when the hernia gets strangulated which can result in the death of the tissue or blockage in the intestines.
The infection can also develop around the mesh which is placed to strengthen the weakened muscles.
Chronic pain
This is the most common complication that people report after hernia surgery. This is a side-effect that is nothing to worry about unless the pain doesn’t seem to subside even after a week.
Injury to the bladder
During the surgery when the mesh is placed inside the intestine, it can damage the bladder and cause problems.
The risk of complications increases with certain factors. The complications can develop due to the following factors-
- Being aged
- Suffering from femoral or inguinal hernia
- Being obese
- Suffering from recurrent hernias
- Have a habit of smoking
Also Read:
When Should I Go For Hernia Surgery?
When the bulge doesn’t affect your daily activities too much, the doctor often tries a “wait and see” approach.
Here the patient has two choices- follow the doctor’s recommendations or take a decision of undergoing the surgery.
No matter when you go for surgery, here are key facts to remember-
- Hernias don’t cure on its own. Eventually, it can only be repaired with surgery.
- Small hernias will get bigger with each passing day as the muscles get weaker and more and more tissue bulges through.
- Before wearing a corset or truss to hold the hernia in place, have a word with your doctor. Sometimes these gear can cause more harm than good.
People who have made up their mind of undergoing surgery can visit Pristyn Care clinics. Our general surgeons use the laparoscopic techniques to repair a hernia.
Also Read:
- Possible Treatment For Repairing A Hernia
- Why one should prefer hernia laparoscopic surgery for hernia operation?
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