5 Ways to Tell if You're a Candidate for Hernia Surgery

A hernia might start as a small bulge or mild discomfort, which can be easy to ignore at first. But over time, it can become painful, affect daily activities, and even lead to serious complications if left untreated. So, how do you know when it’s time to consider hernia surgery? 

Board-certified surgeon Dennis L. Streeter, DO, FAAOS, in northwestern Indiana, is here to guide you through the five key signs that you might be a candidate for a surgical repair and why getting help sooner rather than later can make all the difference. 

1. You have persistent pain or discomfort 

One of the first indicators that you may need hernia surgery is pain that doesn’t go away with rest or lifestyle adjustments. Pain may feel like: 

• A dull ache when lifting, coughing, or bending
• A sharp or burning sensation around the hernia site
• Discomfort that worsens by the end of the day

If the pain begins to interfere with normal activities (like walking, exercising, or even sleeping), surgery may be the most effective long-term solution.

2. The hernia is growing larger

Hernias don’t typically shrink on their own. In fact, they often get worse with time as pressure inside your abdomen increases. You may notice that the bulge becomes more visible when standing or straining, the lump gets harder to push back in (reducible hernia), and the swelling stays out all the time (incarcerated hernia). 

When a hernia continues to enlarge, surgical repair becomes more urgent to prevent complications like strangulation, where blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off. 

3. You experience digestive or bowel symptoms 

For abdominal or groin hernias, symptoms can go beyond localized pain. Pressure on the intestines or nearby organs may lead to digestive issues such as:

• Bloating or abdominal fullness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation or difficulty passing stool

These symptoms are red flags that your hernia may be affecting your gastrointestinal system and should be evaluated by our team right away. 

4. Your hernia can’t be pushed back in

A reducible hernia can be gently pressed back into place. However, when it becomes incarcerated or strangulated, it’s considered a medical emergency. Seek immediate care if you notice: 

• A firm, tender lump that won’t move when pushed
• Redness or discoloration around the bulge
• Sudden, severe pain or nausea

In these cases, surgery isn’t just recommended — it’s necessary to prevent tissue death or infection. 

5. Your quality of life is affected

Even if your hernia isn’t causing extreme pain, the daily discomfort, limitations, and worry can take a toll on your quality of life. You might: 

• Avoid exercise or physical activities
• Feel self-conscious about the visible bulge
• Worry about your hernia worsening unexpectedly

If your hernia is holding you back from feeling like yourself, it’s time to discuss surgical options with us. 

In the end, hernia surgery today is safer and more effective than ever, with minimally invasive techniques that mean smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery. 

If you’re living with any of the symptoms above, don’t wait! Call us at 219-402-3040, or use our scheduling tool to request an appointment with Dr. Streeter today.