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Strangulated Hernia

A hernia is an abnormal swelling or bulge, most commonly seen on the abdomen and groin, as a result of a weakening or hole in the abdominal wall. A strangulated hernia occurs when part of the bulge or swelling pushes through the abdominal wall and then gets trapped by the abdominal muscles which clamp down around it.

The strength of the abdominal muscles squeezes tightly and locks down on the bulge and in many cases causes severe pain as its shuts off the blood vessels inside of the intestine. A strangulated hernia is a surgical emergency and should be dealt with immediately.

A hernia is an abnormal swelling or bulge, most commonly seen on the abdomen and groin, as a result of an internal part of the body pushing through a weakness or hole in the abdominal wall. A Strangulated Hernia occurs when part of the bulge or swelling pushes through the abdominal wall and then gets trapped by the abdominal muscles which clamp down around it.

As the abdominal muscles squeeze and lock tightly around the bulge, the blood vessels in the intestine are shut off. In many cases, this causes severe pain. A Strangulated Hernia is a surgical emergency and should therefore be dealt with immediately.

Is a strangulated hernia dangerous?

As a Strangulated Hernia can cut off the blood supply to the tissues in the abdomen it is extremely dangerous and considered a surgical emergency that requires urgent professional attention. If left untreated it will cause severe pain.;

Strangulated hernia symptoms

  • Severe or sharp pain
  • Vomiting
  • A burning sensation in the area of the suspected hernia
  • Blood in excrement

How can I prevent a strangulated hernia?

Strangulated Hernias are generally more prevalent in patients who are suffering from smaller hernias. This is due to the fact larger hernias tend to push outwards more easily so there is less chance of them being trapped by the muscle opening. Prevention can only be achieved by fixing the hernia before it reaches this level of severity. Strangulation can occur at any time and as a result, we recommend treatment as soon as possible.

My hernia is painful, is it strangulated?

Pain associated with a hernia doesn’t always mean it has become strangulated but if you are feeling pain you should seek medical attention.

If you are experiencing pain from your hernia we strongly recommend you get in touch with one of our expert hernia Consultants to avoid further complications.

Is no treatment an option?

If you are suffering from a Strangulated Hernia you must seek immediate medical attention as it is classed as a surgical emergency.

Patient Testimonial

Dr John Watson shares his experience as a patient when coming to London Hernia with a strangulated hernia. Dr Watson was seen and treated on the same day by Mr Romi Navaratnam and praised the standard of patient rooms, the quality of the food provided and the knowledgeable nurses that were on-hand throughout his treatment.

Book Appointment for Strangulated Hernia

If you would like more information on a strangulated hernia or want to book an appointment you can contact our team by calling 020 3370 1014 or by emailing [email protected].

ENT Consultants

Hernia Clinic

The Hernia Unit provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of all hernia types and can offer a number of surgery options depending on the individual needs of each patient.

A patient speaking to a receptionist

Patient information

Our Hospital is renowned for providing exemplary levels of care across more than 90 services. From orthopaedics, to urology, our private GP practice and Urgent Care Clinic, our services are led by some of London’s leading Consultants. For more information, and to find a service suitable for your care, find out more about the services that we offer.

Make an enquiry

If you have any questions relating to treatment options or pricing information, get in touch with us by filling out one of our contact boxes or giving us a call on 020 3370 1014.

Our Appointments Team have a dedicated and caring approach to finding you the earliest appointment possible with the best specialist.

If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP for a consultation. You can simply refer yourself* and book an appointment.

If you have health insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa Health, Aviva), you will need to contact your insurer to get authorisation before any treatment, and in most cases you will also require a referral letter from your GP.

If you are not registered with a GP, we have an in-house private GP practice you can use. Alternatively, we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstances.

*Please note – for investigations such as X-rays and MRIs, a referral will be required. However, we may be able to arrange this for you through our on-site private GP.

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