Can You Ignore a Hernia?

What Happens If You Ignore a Hernia

A hernia happens when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue that normally holds it in place. There is often no single clear cause, but several factors may contribute to the development of a hernia. A hernia may remain unnoticed at first and only become apparent later, especially under physical strain.

What Are the Symptoms of a Hernia?

You may have a hernia if you see a visible bulge. Some people have discomfort or pain that may feel worse when standing or lifting heavy objects. As the hernia gets bigger, a person may experience nausea, vomiting, or not being able to pass gas or have bowel movements. Such extreme symptoms indicate a need for surgery right away.

What Is the Main Cause of Hernia?

Common causes and contributing factors of hernia may include:

Weakness in the abdominal wall at birth (congenital defect), which may not cause a hernia until later in life.
Increased pressure inside the abdomen, such as from heavy lifting, chronic coughing or sneezing, straining during bowel movements or urination or standing or walking for long periods.
Obesity, which can stretch and weaken abdominal muscles.
Pregnancy, which increases pressure on the abdominal wall.
Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen), which is sometimes seen in people with liver disease.
History of previous abdominal surgery, which can cause weakening of the abdominal wall (incisional hernia).
Family history of hernias or certain genetic connective tissue disorders.
Premature birth and low birth weight, which increase the chance of developing an umbilical or inguinal hernia in infancy.
Use of umbilical site laparoscopic trocars, which may be associated with umbilical hernias.
Poor nutrition and smoking, which may weaken tissue and healing ability.
Multiple pregnancies or chronic increases in abdominal pressure from conditions like constipation or prostate enlargement (in men).

Can a Hernia Go Away on Its Own?

Whether a hernia goes away without treatment depends on the type and the person’s age. In infants, many umbilical hernias may close on their own by the age of 2 or may resolve by age 5. Surgery may be considered if the hernia remains or is larger than 1.5 cm.

In adults, hernias do not heal without medical intervention. The abdominal wall does not repair itself once weakened. Some small, painless hernias may be monitored over time without immediate surgery, a practice called watchful waiting. This is usually only considered if the hernia causes few or no symptoms and does not grow larger.

For adult hernias that cause pain, increase in size or show signs of complications, surgery may be recommended to repair the defect and prevent problems like incarceration or strangulation of tissue.

What’s the Worst Thing a Hernia Can Do?

The most serious risk of a hernia is strangulation. This happens when part of the intestine or other tissue gets trapped (incarcerated) in the hernia and loses its blood supply. Without blood flow, the tissue can become damaged or die.

Strangulated hernias are a medical emergency and require urgent surgery. Signs of strangulation may include a bulge that becomes suddenly larger, severe pain or tenderness, redness around the area, nausea, vomiting or signs of intestinal obstruction like bloating and inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement. Although this complication is rare, it can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

What Is the Best Way To Get Rid of a Hernia?

The only permanent way to repair a hernia is through surgery, but not every hernia requires immediate treatment. The best approach depends on the type of hernia, the size, symptoms and overall health.

Some small hernias that cause little or no discomfort may be safely monitored. This is called watchful waiting. It is sometimes recommended for men with small inguinal hernias or for adults with small, asymptomatic umbilical hernias. Regular checkups are important to monitor for any changes.

Surgery is the most common and reliable treatment for hernias, especially when they cause pain, are growing or show signs of complications. Types of surgery include:

Open surgery: A single larger cut is made to access and repair the hernia. The weakened area is closed with stitches and often reinforced with mesh to reduce the chance of the hernia returning.
Laparoscopic surgery: This minimally invasive method uses small cuts and special instruments to repair the hernia. A piece of mesh is usually placed to strengthen the abdominal wall. Laparoscopic repair may offer quicker recovery for some patients.
Robotic-assisted surgery: Similar to laparoscopic surgery but performed with robotic tools controlled by the surgeon. It may help in certain cases, such as complex or recurrent hernias.
Emergency surgery: If a hernia becomes incarcerated (trapped) or strangulated (cutting off blood supply), emergency surgery is required. This may involve removing damaged tissue in addition to repairing the hernia.

Some patients with certain health conditions, such as cirrhosis with ascites or those on blood thinners, may need careful evaluation before surgery. Prehabilitation, including weight loss and improved nutrition, may reduce surgical risks for some patients.

If you think you may have a hernia or have been diagnosed with one, talk with your doctor to explore the treatment options that are right for you. Every person’s situation is different and a healthcare provider can help guide you toward the safest and most appropriate plan based on your specific needs and health.