From the Research
Yes, a small abdominal hernia can be painful, as evidenced by a recent case report in 2022 1, which highlights the importance of considering internal hernias as a rare differential diagnosis in patients with abdominal pain or intestinal obstruction. Pain occurs when abdominal tissue, such as intestine or fat, pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall, causing discomfort that may range from mild to severe. The pain typically worsens with activities that increase abdominal pressure like lifting, coughing, or straining. Small hernias may cause sharp pain, a burning sensation, or a feeling of heaviness, especially when standing for long periods. Some key points to consider include:
- Pain might also increase at the end of the day or after physical exertion.
- For mild hernia pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food) can help temporarily.
- Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times daily may reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- However, even small hernias require medical evaluation as they won't heal on their own and may worsen over time.
- If you experience severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or inability to pass gas or stool, seek immediate medical attention as these symptoms may indicate a strangulated hernia, which is a medical emergency requiring prompt surgical intervention, as noted in a study from 2014 2. It's also worth noting that internal hernias, such as left paraduodenal hernias, can cause abdominal pain and may require surgical intervention, as discussed in the 2022 case report 1. In terms of diagnosis, imaging modalities like CT and MRI can be helpful in identifying internal hernias, as mentioned in the study from 2009 3. Overall, while small abdominal hernias can be painful, it's essential to seek medical attention to rule out any potential complications and determine the best course of treatment.