Q: Can an abdominal hernia cause back pain?
Yes, an abdominal hernia can cause back pain, usually due to the pressure of the hernia on nerves in the lower abdomen and/or back. Other symptoms of an abdominal hernia can include localized pain, tenderness, a bulge or lump in the abdomen, a heavy or dragging sensation in the abdomen, nausea or vomiting. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please seek medical advice from your doctor.
When a hernia presses on a nerve root or nerve in the back, it can cause radiating pain in the back and buttocks.
In some cases, hernias can also cause spasms and tension in the back muscles leading to back pain. If a hernia is left untreated it can worsen and can even lead to long-term nerve damage and chronic pain. It is important to visit a doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms of a hernia, including back pain, to seek proper diagnosis and treatment.
Q: What are the most common symptoms associated with abdominal hernias?
The most common symptoms associated with abdominal hernias are a bulge or lump in the abdomen, pain or discomfort in the affected area, feeling of heaviness or fullness in the abdomen, and swelling or redness of the skin around the lump. In some cases, a hernia may restrict the movement of your intestines and cause a blockage, leading to nausea, vomiting, and a sharp abdominal pain.
Other common symptoms include back pain, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty in breathing.
Q: How is an abdominal hernia diagnosed?
A: An abdominal hernia is typically diagnosed through a physical examination. During the physical exam, the doctor will press and examine the abdominal area looking for any bulges in the abdominal wall. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound, can also be used to confirm a diagnosis. Blood tests may also be performed to check for infection.
Your doctor may also use imaging tests such as an X-ray or CT scan to confirm the diagnosis.
In some cases, your doctor may also order a blood test to check for signs of infection.
Q: How is an abdominal hernia treated?
A: Abdominal hernias are typically treated with surgery. Depending on the type and size of the hernia, the surgery may involve open surgery or laparoscopic surgery. During open surgery, the surgeon makes a large incision in the abdomen and then pushes the abdominal organs and tissue back into the abdominal cavity. With laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon inserts a small camera and other surgical instruments through several small incisions in the abdomen. The surgery is intended to repair the weakened or torn tissue and to fix the hernia. In some cases, a surgeon may recommend hernia mesh to further reinforce the weakened tissue. Following surgery, the patient may need to wear a hernia truss or hernia belt to provide additional support to the area and promote healing.
Some hernias can be treated
with medications and lifestyle changes, while more serious hernias may require surgery. Your doctor can help you determine the best treatment plan.