Ventral Hernia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 2, 2025.

AMBULATORY CARE:

A ventral hernia

is a bulge through a weak area in the abdominal wall. The abdominal wall is made of fat and muscle and holds the organs in place. The hernia may contain abdominal tissue, part of an organ (such as the intestine), or fluid.

Common signs and symptoms:

A ventral hernia may happen over time or it may happen suddenly. Some movements can make symptoms worse. These movements include when you cough, sneeze, or strain to have a bowel movement. Symptoms may also worsen if you lift heavy objects, sit, or stand for a long time. You may have any of the following:

A soft bulge or swelling in your abdomen or over your belly button
A bulge that gets bigger when you cough, strain to have a bowel movement, or sit up
Abdominal pain or constipation
Fever, nausea, or vomiting

Seek care immediately if:

Your hernia gets bigger, feels firm, or turns blue or purple.
You have severe abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting.
Your abdomen is larger than usual.
You are unable to have a bowel movement or pass gas.

Call your doctor or gastroenterologist if:

You have a fever.
You have nausea or are vomiting.
You are constipated.
You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment for an inguinal hernia

usually includes surgery. Surgery is done to place the hernia back inside the abdominal wall. Before you have surgery, you may be given medicine or have a manual reduction. Manual reduction means your healthcare provider uses his or her hands to put firm, steady pressure on your hernia. Your provider will continue to apply pressure until the hernia disappears inside the abdominal wall. You may need the following:

NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.

Manage your symptoms and prevent another hernia:

Do not lift heavy objects. Heavy lifting can increase pressure on your abdominal muscles and make your hernia bigger or cause another hernia. Ask your healthcare provider how much is safe for you to lift.
Drink liquids as directed. Liquids may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
Eat foods high in fiber. Fiber may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Foods that contain fiber include fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

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Do not put pressure on your hernia. Do not push on the hernia or place tape or a coin over it.
Maintain a healthy weight. If your body weight is higher than recommended, weight loss may help relieve your symptoms. Your healthcare provider will tell you what a healthy weight is for you. Your provider can help you create a safe weight loss plan, if needed.
Wear an abdominal belt, if needed. An abdominal belt can provide support, reduce discomfort, and prevent your hernia from worsening. An abdominal belt may be used to hold your hernia in the correct place after manual reduction. Ask your provider for instructions on how to apply and use an abdominal belt safely.
Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can weaken the abdominal wall. This may increase your risk for another hernia. Ask your provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.

Follow up with your doctor or gastroenterologist as directed:

You may need to see a surgeon to plan for surgery to repair your hernia. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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