Most of us think of a hernia as a visible bulge in the abdomen. This is certainly true, but there are other symptoms of a hernia that can present as something entirely different. Be cautious, and don’t ignore them or self-diagnose thinking your symptoms are insignificant.
Some untreated hernias can be quite dangerous. Let’s look at 8 silent signs you may have a hernia.
Because they rarely cause a bulge, some hernias in women are diagnosed as fibroids, ovarian cysts or endometriosis based on the region of pain. Although they may cause pain in the leg or back, a MRI is usually required to identify these small but very painful hernias.
Women are also prone to umbilical hernias near the belly button. A hearty laugh accompanied by pain can be a hidden sign of this type of hernia.
A feeling of muscle fatigue and weakness in the upper leg and groin can be a sign of a hernia.
Although not usually thought of as a symptom of a hernia, an upset stomach can indicate a serious condition known as an incarcerated hernia. In this case the hernia doesn’t return in place by a gentle push, and can require immediate medical attention.
A fever with a hernia is a bad combination. This can indicate a “strangulated” hernia which is not getting enough blood flow. Call Dr. Brett Sachse at Surgical Consultants of Northern Virginia immediately.
If you have pain while lifting heavy objects, or pressure in your abdomen when you bend down, this could be a silent sign of a hernia. Other common signs can be pain when you cough, or tightness in the groin or abdomen.
Be aware that constipation may mean there is blockage in the large intestine interfering with digestion. Additionally it will be difficult to pass gas.
Of course many issues can cause heartburn, but a hernia could be one of them. A hiatal hernia in the upper abdomen can cause a feeling like heartburn along with chest pain. It allows stomach acid to leak into the esophagus causing inflammation which mimics heartburn.
An inguinal hernia can cause someone to feel like they had an enormous meal when in fact they did not. This very common type of hernia can also make you feel bloated accompanied with pain in the groin and lower abdomen.
Some of these easy to miss signs of a hernia can be potentially dangerous if not treated. Speak to Dr. Brett Sachse at Surgical Consultants of Northern Virginia in Reston VA if you suspect you may have a hernia.
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/17/health/17brody.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3015620/
http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/health/ct-women-get-hernias-too-but-they-re-often-hidden-20170403-story.html
https://www.activebeat.com/your-health/women/10-signs-and-symptoms-of-a-hernia/
