What Happens if a Hernia is Left Untreated?

First things first, for those wondering what happens if a hernia is left untreated, it’s important to seek prompt medical attention for this common condition. Without proper treatment, hernias can develop serious and potentially life-threatening complications that may require emergency surgery. These risks include:

1. Strangulation stems from the blood supply to the trapped tissue being cut off completely.
2. Incarceration occurs when herniated tissue becomes trapped and can’t move back to its proper position.
3. Ruptures involve the hernia tearing, causing internal bleeding and severe infection risk.
4. Bowel obstructions occur when a blockage in the digestive system prevents proper function.
5. Enlargement of a hernia can make it much more difficult to repair.
6. Chronic pain and ongoing discomfort can limit daily activities and quality of life.

Don’t let uncertainty about a hernia keep you from getting the care you need. At Complete Care, our emergency-trained physicians at all of our ER locations are ready to evaluate your condition and discuss treatment options that work best for you.

6 risks of leaving a hernia untreated

1. Strangulation

When a hernia becomes strangulated, the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off completely. This is one of the most dangerous complications because, without blood flow, the tissue begins to quickly die. 

Think of it like a garden hose that’s been kinked — water can’t flow through, and similarly, vital blood can’t reach the trapped organ or tissue. Severe left-side pain is often one of the first warning signs of strangulation, but it can also cause nausea and vomiting, fever, or severe stomach pains. This requires emergency surgery to prevent tissue death and potentially life-threatening complications.

2. Incarceration

Incarceration occurs when the herniated tissue becomes trapped in the weak spot of the muscle wall. Unlike strangulation, blood flow isn’t completely cut off, but the tissue can’t move back to its proper position. 

This can lead to severe pain and sets the stage for potential strangulation if left untreated. Incarcerated hernias often cause constant discomfort and can affect daily activities like walking or bending over.

3. Rupture

A hernia rupture is a severe complication that occurs when the weakened muscle tissue tears completely, allowing the herniated contents to spill into the body cavity. This medical emergency can lead to severe internal bleeding, immediate, intense pain, and a high risk of infection as bacteria from organs like the intestines can spread to normally sterile areas of the body. 

Ruptures require immediate emergency surgery and can lead to longer recovery times and more complex post-operative care than a planned hernia repair.

4. Bowel obstruction

When intestinal tissue is involved in a hernia, it can create a blockage in the digestive system. This obstruction prevents food and waste from moving through the intestines properly. Patients often experience severe cramping, constipation, vomiting, and abdominal swelling. 

The pressure from the blockage can also damage the intestinal wall and lead to additional complications if not treated promptly.

5. Enlargement

Without treatment, hernias will typically grow larger over time. As the muscle wall continues to weaken, the opening becomes bigger, allowing more tissue to push through. This makes the hernia more difficult to repair and increases the risk of complications. 

Larger hernias often require more complex surgical procedures. They may have a longer recovery time than if they had been treated when they were smaller, making prompt treatment all the more important.

6. Chronic pain

While many hernias develop gradually, some can occur suddenly due to sports injuries or other strenuous activities, leading to persistent pain and discomfort that affects quality of life. The constant pressure and irritation from the herniated tissue can cause inflammation, muscle strain, and nerve compression. 

This chronic pain often worsens with physical activity and can limit a person’s ability to work, exercise, or perform routine tasks.

How do you know if a hernia is serious?

Understanding when a hernia has become serious can help patients seek timely medical care and prevent dangerous complications. While all hernias require medical attention, certain symptoms indicate that immediate emergency care is necessary. Recognizing these warning signs could be the difference between a routine procedure and a medical emergency.

What are the signs of a serious hernia?

Recognizing the warning signs of a serious hernia can make a massive difference in preventing severe complications. While hernias often develop gradually, these are some symptoms that signal that immediate medical attention is necessary to protect your health:

• Severe or rapidly intensifying pain in the hernia area can indicate that tissue has become trapped. This pain often feels different from the usual discomfort associated with hernias and may be accompanied by a burning or sharp sensation that doesn’t subside.
• Nausea and vomiting, especially when occurring alongside hernia pain, suggest that the trapped tissue may be affecting your digestive system. These symptoms often indicate that your hernia requires emergency evaluation.
• A hernia bulge that becomes dark red, purple, or significantly darker than the surrounding skin suggests blood flow problems to the area. This discoloration, particularly when combined with pain, is a serious warning sign that requires immediate medical attention.
• The inability to push the hernia back in when it previously could be reduced might mean the tissue has become trapped. This change in your hernia’s behavior is particularly concerning when accompanied by pain or discomfort.
• Fever accompanying any hernia symptoms could indicate an infection or other serious complication. When combined with other symptoms like pain or nausea, fever suggests your body is responding to a potentially dangerous situation.

If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait to plan your freestanding ER visit. These symptoms could mean you need emergency care, and getting help quickly gives you the best chance of avoiding serious problems. With lower wait times, a freestanding emergency room can give you a better chance of seeing a medical professional sooner rather than later.

What happens if a hernia ruptures?

A hernia rupture is one of the most serious medical emergencies related to hernias. Knowing when to go to the ER for a hernia becomes particularly important if you notice a combination of new, severe symptoms. Unlike the gradual discomfort of a normal hernia, a rupture causes dramatic changes that shouldn’t be ignored and necessitates an immediate ER visit. 

The most common hernia rupture symptoms include:

• A popping sensation followed by immediate, intense pain
• Sudden onset of cold sweats and paleness
• Rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath
• Dizziness or fainting spells
• Hard, tender abdomen that’s sensitive to touch
• A sharp increase in the size of the hernia bulge
• Skin discoloration around the hernia site that spreads quickly

The window for treatment narrows significantly once a hernia ruptures. Waiting even a few hours can lead to shock, widespread infection, or organ failure. Unlike a stable hernia that can sometimes be monitored, a rupture requires immediate surgical intervention at the nearest emergency room.

Struggling with untreated hernia symptoms? Know where to go for prompt, excellent care.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated can range from chronic discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. Don’t let uncertainty about your symptoms keep you from getting the care you need. Complete Care’s emergency-trained physicians understand the risks of untreated hernias and provide expert evaluation at our ER locations throughout Texas (Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas/Fort Worth, East Texas, Lubbock, and San Antonio) and in Colorado Springs.

With state-of-the-art facilities and minimal wait times, our team is ready to assess your condition and create a treatment plan that works for you. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or severe symptoms, don’t wait until your hernia becomes an emergency. Visit your nearest Complete Care location today and take the first step toward recovery.

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