Hernia pain comes and goes due to activity, body position, and pressure changes. It may worsen with exertion or straining and ease with rest. A reducible hernia shifts in and out, while nerve pressure and digestive issues can also cause intermittent discomfort.
Why hernia pain comes and goes
Hernia pain can come and go for several reasons, often depending on factors like activity level, posture, or strain. Here’s an explanation of why this could occur:
Pressure Changes
When you engage in activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as lifting heavy objects, coughing, or straining, the hernia sac can bulge or shift, leading to more discomfort. When you’re resting or not putting pressure on the area, the pain may subside.
Positioning
Hernia pain can be affected by body position. Lying down or sitting in certain ways may relieve pressure on the hernia, while standing or bending over can make it worse.
Size of the Hernia
Smaller hernias may cause intermittent pain because the contents of the hernia (such as a part of the intestine or fat) can move in and out of the sac. If the hernia temporarily “reduces” (pushes back into the abdomen), the pain may decrease.
Infection or Inflammation
If the hernia is inflamed or infected, pain can become more pronounced at certain times, especially if the hernia is irritated by movement or certain activities.
Strangulation Risk
If a portion of the intestine becomes trapped or strangulated (blood flow is restricted), it may lead to more constant, intense pain, but this is usually accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or vomiting. If the pain is mild and fluctuates, it could be a sign that the hernia isn’t strangulated.
Muscle Fatigue
- Weak or fatigued abdominal muscles can cause pain, which can come and go depending on how much strain you’re placing on them.
If the pain persists or worsens, it’s essential to seek medical advice, as it could signal a more serious complication.
Ask a question
Q. Can sitting too much cause a hernia?
Ans. Sitting too much doesn’t directly cause a hernia but can weaken abdominal muscles, increase intra-abdominal pressure, and lead to weight gain. These factors may raise the risk of developing a hernia, especially with additional strain or poor posture.
Q. What lifestyle causes hernia?
Ans. A lifestyle with heavy lifting, chronic coughing, poor posture, prolonged sitting, obesity, smoking, and a lack of core-strengthening exercise can increase the risk of hernia. Straining during bowel movements due to constipation also contributes to hernia development.
Q. What foods shrink a hernia?
Ans. While no food directly shrinks a hernia, a diet rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) prevents constipation, reducing strain. Anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, nuts, and omega-3s may support tissue health and ease discomfort.
Q. Can a hernia grow back?
Ans. Yes, a hernia can grow back after surgical repair, especially if the area weakens again. Factors like heavy lifting, obesity, poor healing, smoking, or inadequate post-surgery care increase the risk of recurrence. Lifestyle adjustments can help prevent it.
Q. How to check for a hernia at home?
Ans. To check for hernia at home, look for a bulge in the abdomen, groin, or near surgical scars, especially when standing, coughing, or straining. It may feel tender or disappear when lying down. Always consult a doctor for confirmation.
Q. What can be mistaken for a hernia?
Ans. Conditions that can be mistaken for a hernia include muscle strains, groin or abdominal sprains, lymph node swelling, lipomas, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, diverticulitis, and tumors. Digestive issues like acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also mimic hernia symptoms, causing pain, bloating, or discomfort.