Strangulated Hernia: Signs, Remedies, and Origins
A strangulated hernia is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. It occurs when the muscle tissue in the abdomen becomes weak, allowing tissues from the intestines to push through, and subsequently cutting off the blood supply to these tissues [1]. This condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Common symptoms of a strangulated hernia include sudden, intense or severe pain at the hernia site, a bulge that becomes suddenly larger, firm, tender, or cannot be pushed back in, redness or discoloration around the hernia, nausea and vomiting, signs of intestinal obstruction such as bloating, inability to pass gas, or difficulty passing stools, abdominal tenderness and guarding, and fever in some cases [2][3][4].
Given the urgency of this condition, it is crucial to seek emergency medical care if any of these symptoms are experienced. A strangulated hernia is often diagnosed in the emergency room, and may be easy to see from visual inspection and the description of symptoms. Doctors may also use an imaging test, such as an ultrasound, to check if the hernia is blocking a person's bowels [5].
Treatment for a strangulated hernia requires urgent surgical intervention to restore blood flow, relieve the obstruction, and prevent tissue death or serious complications like infection or sepsis. Delaying surgery can be life-threatening, so anyone with suspected strangulation should seek emergency medical care immediately [1][2][4].
The surgery for a strangulated hernia typically occurs in two stages: reducing the size of the hernia and removing any damaged tissues, followed by repairing the weak area of muscle where the hernia pushed through. In some cases, a surgeon may need to add flexible surgical mesh or tissue for added support to help keep the hernia from recurring [6].
Risk factors for hernias include straining during bowel movements, chronic coughing, abdominal surgeries or cesarean deliveries, strenuous activity, pregnancy, and having had a hernia repaired in the past [7]. Incarcerated hernias, which are not a medical emergency but should still be treated quickly to prevent them becoming strangulated, are also a concern.
Recovering from surgery for a strangulated hernia can take time, with many people needing to spend some time recovering in the hospital. Complete recovery can vary from a few weeks to several months. Prompt recognition and hospital care are critical for a favorable outcome.
In summary, understanding the symptoms and urgency of a strangulated hernia is crucial for early detection and treatment. Anyone experiencing symptoms of a strangulated hernia should seek emergency medical care immediately. By doing so, the outlook for recovery is good.
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Strangulated Hernia. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/strangulated-hernia/symptoms-causes/syc-20352004 [2] NHS. (2021). Strangulated Hernia. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/strangulated-hernia/ [3] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Strangulated Hernia. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17144-strangulated-hernia [4] Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021). Strangulated Hernia. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/strangulated-hernia [5] WebMD. (2021). Strangulated Hernia. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/strangulated-hernia [6] MedlinePlus. (2021). Strangulated Hernia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000761.htm [7] American College of Surgeons. (2021). Hernias. https://www.facs.org/quality-programs/hernia/patientinfo/about-hernias
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