Question:
What does a hernia look like?

I had Open RNY 5 weeks ago and yesterday my incision became very tender and a large red circle appeared with the incision going down the center of it. It's very tender to the touch and even feels warm. Could this be a hernia?    — Teresa F. (posted on June 4, 2002)

June 4, 2002
I am no doctor, but this sounds like an infection to me- especially the part about it being warm to the touch. A hernia just sticks out, but it isn't really discolored. I would call your doctor ASAP.
   — Jennifer Y.

June 4, 2002
Yes, it does sound much more like an infection and not a hernia. Any time your incision feels warm to the touch and red, you should let your surgeon know. Also, if it is swollen, there may be fluid or pus build up under the skin that will need to be drained. I'd call the surgeon right away. Good luck!
   — Maria H.