What are the Signs & Symptoms?

The first symptom of incisional hernia is pain near the scar formed from a prior surgery. The site may or may not show a bulge. Symptoms may be more

• Pressure and fullness in the abdomen
• Pain and discomfort while bending or lifting
• Swelling near the incisional site which disappears after lying down (reducible hernia)
• Feeling of something being present in the incisional site
• Burning sensation

Unable to push back the hernia while you lie may be due to a trapped bulge (incarcerated hernia) which may cause severe discomfort. Trapped hernias may pose a risk for strangulation, where the blood supply to the herniated part is cut off, causing death of tissue (gangrene). A trapped hernia can also obstruct your bowel thereby causing abdominal distension. These are emergency situations and require immediate medical attention. You may have strangulated hernia or a trapped bulge if you experience the following symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Unable to pass bowels or gas
• Diarrhoea