Incarcerated hernias can cause serious complications such as intestinal obstruction, gangrene, and septic shock. Symptoms include pain, fatigue, weakness, and a hard lump. Early recognition is important to prevent complications. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if there is a high body temperature, dizziness, or confusion.
While most hernias are easily treated, the more complicated incarcerated hernia can cause serious complications. The most common symptoms are pain at the site of the hernia as well as increased fatigue and weakness. Patients may also develop intestinal obstruction, gangrene, or even septic shock. Recognizing the signs of this condition early can help prevent serious complications from occurring.
One of the most common signs of an incarcerated hernia is pain at the site of the hernia, particularly as that pain increases in intensity over time. Additionally, the hernia will often be characterized by a lump that is hard to the touch and lacks the fleshy feel of the surrounding tissue.
Patients suffering from this condition may also experience increased fatigue and weakness. Because these symptoms are associated with a number of illnesses, they aren’t usually the only thing to consider when a doctor makes a diagnosis. It is important for patients who experience an increase in these symptoms, however, to evaluate their current health status for any other changes.
An incarcerated hernia can often lead to intestinal obstruction. This most often happens when some intestinal tissue becomes trapped through a herniated opening. Patients who experience this complication typically experience nausea and vomiting, a rise in body temperature, and may become irritable. Also, bowel movements can become increasingly difficult or can be extremely painful.
In some cases, an incarcerated hernia can lead to gangrene. Gangrene occurs when blood flow to body tissue becomes blocked and it begins to decay, causing serious problems. The patient may develop a blue or black tinge to the skin, as well as numbness in the affected area. Gangrene is often very painful and must be treated promptly or it can be fatal.
In severe cases, septic shock can occur. This is relatively rare, however, and usually only occurs when the condition is ignored and medical attention avoided. Those who have a high body temperature, experience dizziness and confusion, or have an elevated heart rate should seek medical help as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
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