Absolutely! Many people live with a hernia without any immediate problems. If your hernia isn’t causing pain or discomfort, you may not need surgery right away. However, it’s essential to monitor it since hernias don’t heal on their own and can worsen over time.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat a Hernia?
A hernia is essentially a hole in the abdominal wall, allowing tissue or intestines to push through. While some people live for years without issues, others may develop complications. The biggest risks include:
- Incarceration – When the hernia becomes trapped and cannot be pushed back in. This can lead to pain and discomfort.
- Strangulation – A rare but serious condition where the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate surgery.
- Hernia Growth – Over time, hernias tend to get larger, making future surgery more complex.
How Do You Decide If You Need Surgery?
Hernia repair is recommended in the following situations:
- You experience pain or discomfort, even if it’s intermittent.
- The hernia is getting bigger over time.
- You’ve had a recent hernia-related emergency.
- You’re constantly worried about the risk of complications.
If your hernia doesn’t bother you, your doctor may suggest monitoring it rather than opting for immediate surgery. However, since hernias do not heal naturally, many doctors recommend surgery to prevent the risk of incarceration or strangulation.
How Long Can You Live With a Hernia?
There is no set timeline for how long you can live with a hernia. Some people go their entire lives without experiencing major issues, while others need emergency surgery within months.
The key is to watch for any changes in size, pain, or discomfort and consult a doctor if anything worsens.
Can You Push a Hernia Back In?
Yes, in most cases, pushing a hernia back in is safe. This is called reducing the hernia. However, just because you can push it back doesn’t mean the problem is gone. Over time, hernias tend to get worse, and at some point, surgery may become necessary.
What Makes a Hernia Worse?
There is no single reason why some hernias get worse, but certain factors can contribute:
- Weight Gain – Extra weight, especially visceral fat, increases abdominal pressure and can enlarge the hernia.
- Heavy Lifting – While lifting may not always worsen a hernia, excessive strain on the abdominal muscles can increase the risk.
- Chronic Coughing or Straining – Conditions like chronic coughing, constipation, or difficulty urinating can put extra pressure on the hernia.
Final Thoughts
Living with a hernia is possible, but it’s important to stay informed about potential risks. If you experience pain, notice enlargement, or feel worried about complications, it may be time to consider surgery. Consult with a specialist at Texas Hernia Specialists to determine the best treatment. Call us at (888) 365-1544 for more information.