Patient's question:
I've been feeling bloated recently, with a hard sensation when pressed, and some mild abdominal pain. My mom had a hernia, and the symptoms were similar. I haven't had a bowel movement for a few days, but I felt better after passing a few gas. So, could I rule out a hernia?Doctor's answer:
Hernia is most typically diagnosed clinically when a swelling in the lower abdomen reappears during a decrease in intra-abdominal pressure; when intra-abdominal pressure increases, this swelling can disappear on its own. You are currently experiencing abdominal pain, and you have also passed several farts today, indicating that the intestines are unobstructed. These symptoms do not align with the clinical presentation of hernia. Although your mother previously had a hernia, hernia is not hereditary. Therefore, you can largely rule out the possibility of hernia at this time.