How serious is an intestinal hernia?
If the contents of the hernia become trapped in the weak point in the abdominal wall, the contents can obstruct the bowel, leading to severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and the inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas. Strangulation. An incarcerated hernia can cut off blood flow to part of your intestine.
How do you fix an intestinal hernia?
For open hernia repair surgery, a single long incision is made in the groin. If the hernia is bulging out of the abdominal wall (a direct hernia), the bulge is pushed back into place. If the hernia is going down the inguinal canal (indirect), the hernia sac is either pushed back or tied off and removed.
What is the symptoms of hernia in the intestines?
Typically, patients with ventral hernias describe mild pain, aching or a pressure sensation at the site of the hernia. The discomfort worsens with any activity that puts a strain on the abdomen, such as heavy lifting, running or bearing down during bowel movements. Some patients have a bulge but do not have discomfort.
Can an intestinal hernia heal itself?
The hernia won’t heal on its own. If your hernia does not bother you, most likely you can wait to have surgery. Your hernia may get worse, but it may not. Over time, hernias tend to get bigger as the muscle wall of the belly gets weaker and more tissue bulges through.
How long is recovery for abdominal hernia surgery?
Normal activities can gradually be resumed over time until they can be carried out without feeling any pain. Most people are able to do light activities after 1 or 2 weeks. Gentle exercise, such as walking, can help the healing process. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for about 4 to 6 weeks.
What causes a hernia in the intestines?
Anything that causes an increase in pressure in the abdomen can cause a hernia, including: Lifting heavy objects without stabilizing the abdominal muscles. Diarrhea or constipation. Persistent coughing or sneezing.
How do you poop with a hernia?
Constipation caused by hernia can be relieved in a few ways:
- Drinking more water can help soften stool.
- Eating foods rich in fiber will help move food along.
- Eating yogurt or foods with other probiotics can aid the digestive tract.
- Walking can help loosen stool with motion.
- Take a stool softener.