How to diagnose incisional hernia?

You know you’ve been working out if your abs feel like they’re giving birth every time you cough, sneeze or laugh. But what if those “abs” are actually a result of an incisional hernia? A common complication of abdominal surgery that can arise as early as a few months after the procedure, incisional hernias occur when tissues push through weak spots in the vicinity of surgical scars and create openings. As confused tissue comes into contact with a nerve bundle called ilioinguinal nerve, it creates discomfort, inflammation and soreness around the area.

So how do you figure out whether your belly is dealing with more than just intense workout pain? Here’s what you need to know.

1. Observe Swelling Changes

One telltale sign of an incisional hernia is swelling, which can be observed over weeks or even months after surgical treatment; this swelling becomes obvious while doing physical activities such as lifting weights, carrying heavy items or standing up for prolonged periods. It’s important to note that not all post-surgery swellings indicate the presence of an incisional hernia but examining changes over time will help identify any necessary action on your end.

2. Feel Around for Lumps

Another indication that something might be wrong is lumps forming near vertical scars from prior surgeries. Touching gently without pressing too hard will get things moving under skin layers so nodules should become easier to spot upon further examination and diagnosis from medical experts such as ulcer surgeons who specialize in treating these conditions via suturing techniques known as herniorrhaphy or laparoscopic repair.

3. Notice Bodily Discomforts

If discomfort occurs around stitches brought about by movement within surrounding muscles including when getting up quickly off chairs (sound familiar?), it could mean something has gone wrong with the incisional site. Painful sensations inducing sharp pangs and spiking in intensity signals a progression of complications that’s best seen by a specialist.

4. Check for Bowel Changes

Hernias often put pressure on internal organs including the intestines, which can alter bowel movements and digestion efficiency. For example, constipation or difficulties passing stools could be caused by possible blockages in the intestinal tract from hernia-related swelling — keep an eye out to see whether such discomfort persists so you’re ready when it’s time to call up your surgeon!

5. Record Physical Changes Accurately

Lastly but most importantly, take note of all changes occurring around surgical areas as well as how long they last — did symptoms start recently? Has there been persistent pain for many weeks without any signs of improvement? Take detailed notes about when each symptom occurs (before/after meals) so doctors will have more informed insights into what might be causing these troublesome conditions.


Whether or not you are exhibiting post-operative symptoms, an incisional hernia is definitely something to worry about! Make sure to consult with your doctor if any abnormalities arise — surgery recovery periods can vary greatly depending on individual factors like age, occupation and lifestyle habits; but undoubtedly this requires patience along with thorough diagnosis until it gets solved completely using expert medical opinions.#

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