Most people have heard about hernias, but they’re not so familiar with the term ventral hernias. A ventral hernia is a protrusion of tissue through the abdominal wall. The bulge can be a portion of your intestines or another organ. Although hernias can occur at any location on the abdominal wall, they generally appear at a point of weakness within your muscles. Sites that typically experience problems include previous surgical incisions, the navel or groin area.

In addition to congenital defects, hernias can develop when muscles weaken because of age or pregnancy. If you resume strenuous activities too soon after undergoing a procedure, a post-surgical ventral hernia may form because your abdominal muscles did not have the opportunity to fully heal. Other risk factors include obesity, a previous hernia, an injury and a family history of hernias.

Ventral Hernia Symptoms

Ranging from mild to severe, symptoms of a ventral hernia may take weeks or months to appear. The most common symptoms of a ventral hernia include:

• A sharp pain that occurs when engaging in physical activities, such as lifting, jogging, as well as sneezing or coughing
• Nausea and vomiting because of intestinal complications
• Constipation if the intestines move out of place
• A bulge, or growth, in the area of the hernia that is tender to the touch and may disappear when you lie down

Along with a physical exam, a ventral hernia will be diagnosed using imaging tests, such as an MRI, CT scan or ultrasound.

Hernia Treatment

Ventral hernias require medical intervention because they do not heal on their own. If left untreated, they will continue to grow and may cause serious complications like reduced blood supply to the affected area. Known as strangulation, the lack of blood flow may cause bowel tissue to rupture or die. Strangulation is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment.

Seeking Medical Help

You should seek medical care immediately if you develop an abdominal bulge or had the problem recur after having been previously treated. This is particularly crucial for anyone who has a bulge that has grown larger or has become painful.

You do not have to allow a ventral hernia to affect your quality of life. Successful treatment options are available at New Life Surgical Associates in Jacksonville, FL. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to learn more.