What Happens If You Don’t Treat a Hernia? Risks and Complications

A hernia might start as a minor bulge or mild discomfort, but if left untreated, it can become dangerous. While some hernias remain small for years, others progress quickly, leading to pain, intestinal blockages, or even life-threatening complications. Here’s what you need to know about the risks of ignoring a hernia and when to seek treatment.

Why Untreated Hernias Are Risky

Hernias do not heal on their own. Without medical care, the opening in the abdominal wall often enlarges, increasing the chance of:

• Worsening pain or pressure
• Activity limitations and reduced quality of life
• Emergency situations like incarceration or strangulation

Common Complications of Untreated Hernias

Incarcerated Hernia‍

When tissue becomes trapped outside the abdominal wall, it can’t be pushed back in. This causes swelling, pain, and nausea — and can quickly worsen.

Strangulated Hernia (Medical Emergency)‍

If blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off, the tissue begins to die. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, fever, redness, or vomiting. Immediate surgery is required.

Intestinal Obstruction‍

Large hernias can press on the intestines, blocking digestion. Signs include cramping, nausea, bloating, and inability to pass stool or gas.

Bowel Perforation‍

In rare cases, a strangulated hernia can tear the bowel wall, causing internal bleeding and sepsis. This is life-threatening and requires emergency surgery.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Seek medical attention if you notice:

• A bulge in the abdomen or groin that grows over time
• Pain when coughing, sneezing, or lifting
• Nausea, vomiting, or fever
• Redness, swelling, or tenderness at the hernia site
• A bulge that cannot be pushed back in

Benefits of Early Hernia Treatment

Getting care early can:

• Prevent emergency surgery and serious complications
• Reduce discomfort during daily activities
• Allow for minimally invasive repair with smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less scarring
• Improve long-term quality of life

Modern Hernia Repair Options

At Hernia Innovations by BASS Medical Group, we specialize in advanced surgical techniques:

• Laparoscopic hernia repair → small incisions, quick recovery
• Robotic-assisted repair → precision and minimal downtime
• Outpatient procedures → most patients go home the same day

When to Call a Hernia Specialist

Don’t wait until symptoms become severe. Contact a specialist if you have:

• Persistent pain or pressure at the hernia site
• A bulge that increases with coughing or straining
• Sudden worsening of symptoms

Early consultation can mean a smoother repair and faster recovery.

Expert Hernia Care in the East Bay

At Hernia Innovations, part of BASS Medical Group, our board-certified surgeons have decades of experience treating complex hernias. With locations in Walnut Creek, Brentwood, Antioch, and Concord, we provide advanced care close to home.

Call us today at (925) 940-1025 or request an appointment online to schedule your hernia evaluation.