A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This creates a bulge that may be visible or felt, often in the abdomen or groin area. A hernia will not heal on its own and worsens over time, necessitating intervention.
Progression of Untreated Hernias
If left unaddressed, a hernia tends to grow larger as the weakened tissue continues to stretch and more internal contents push through the opening. This enlargement can make the bulge more noticeable and may lead to increased discomfort or pain. Initially, a hernia might be “reducible,” meaning the protruding tissue can be gently pushed back into its normal position within the body cavity.
As the condition progresses, the hernia can become “incarcerated,” meaning the trapped tissue cannot be manually pushed back. This happens when surrounding muscles prevent the herniated contents from returning to their original location. An incarcerated hernia causes persistent pain and tenderness, indicating a more serious stage.
Acute Medical Complications
Untreated hernias can lead to acute medical emergencies, primarily involving the trapping and potential damage of internal organs. An incarcerated hernia, where tissue (often intestine) becomes firmly trapped and cannot be reduced, causes severe pain, swelling, and tenderness. While not always cutting off blood flow, it can lead to further complications.
If an incarcerated hernia progresses, it can lead to strangulation, a life-threatening condition where the blood supply to the trapped tissue is compromised or completely cut off. Without adequate blood flow, the affected tissue, such as a segment of the intestine, begins to die, a process known as gangrene or necrosis. Symptoms of strangulation include sudden, rapidly intensifying pain, fever, and a noticeable change in the hernia bulge’s color, which may appear red, purple, or dark. This situation requires immediate surgical intervention to remove the dead tissue and prevent widespread infection or sepsis.
Bowel obstruction is another potential consequence, often arising from an incarcerated hernia, particularly when the intestine is involved. When a segment of the bowel becomes trapped and blocked, it prevents the normal passage of food, gas, and waste. This can result in severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and the inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement. Bowel obstruction can lead to a buildup of waste matter and gases, interfering with nutrient and fluid absorption, and potentially causing tissue damage if left unaddressed.
Daily Life Implications
An untreated hernia can significantly affect a person’s daily life, extending beyond the risk of acute emergencies. The persistent presence and growth of the bulge can lead to chronic pain and discomfort. This discomfort often intensifies with movement, straining, coughing, or lifting, making routine activities challenging.
Physical activities, including exercise and certain work-related tasks, may become limited due to pain or the risk of worsening the hernia. Individuals might find themselves unable to participate in hobbies they once enjoyed. The visible bulge can also affect a person’s self-perception and social interactions.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Recognizing specific symptoms that indicate an emergency is important for anyone with a hernia. Immediate medical attention, such as going to an emergency room, is necessary if you experience sudden and severe pain at the hernia site that quickly intensifies. Other urgent signs include the hernia bulge becoming firm, tender, or discolored (red, purple, or dark), and if it cannot be pushed back into place.
Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, or the inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement also warrant urgent care. These symptoms can signal serious complications like strangulation or bowel obstruction, which require prompt medical evaluation and likely emergency surgery to prevent life-threatening outcomes.