Question:
I think I have a hernia, how can I tell for sure?

I felt good yesterday so I got on my hands and knees and cleaned out my refrigerator and then I lifted a trash bag that was very heavy. I think I overdid it. Now I have a dull pain in my abdomin to the left of my incision. The pain gets more intense when I bend down to pick something up off the floor. Could this be a hernia and can it come on so quickly? I see my doctor for a check up in 4 more days but was wondering if anyone here has had this happen to them. By the way, I am 4 weeks post-op from open rny.    — Peggy D. (posted on May 3, 2002)

May 3, 2002
I have had a hernia for months, but I had no idea until I was in emergency for a gallbladder attack, and needed a CT Scan (all pre-op). My hernia is quite large (from another surgery a year ago) but they aren't going to do anything about it until I lose more weight. I think you are okay to wait until your appointment if it is a hernia. But, then again, I like to be cautious, so I might go into the clinic anyway if the pain persists. I am intersted to hear what your doc says!
   — kultgirl

May 3, 2002
I am six weeks out and am experiencing the same feeling. I was at support group last night and asked the same question. It appears that everyone that has had the surgery has had the same feelings on both sides of the incision. I went to the Dr last week and saw the PA. She said that it is the internal sutures rubbing. My pain started at three weeks and has gotten a little worse as it has gone along. Currently I am not having the pain on the right side. I go back to the Dr on Thursday of next week. My wife who is a nurse says that it is not a hernia. She feels that it is related to the internal sutures which run vertical to the outside incision.
   — Don D.

May 3, 2002
Peggy, I have the same sort of issues/feelings and around and underneath my incision is hard. Would like to know what you find out when you go back to the Dr. If you think of it, can you email me at [email protected]. Thanks so much! Julie
   — Julie D.