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Torn Abdominal Muscle/Hernia??

Mon, December 07, 2009 3:11 PM

Good Afternoon -

I would like to see if there is anyone out there that has experienced anything like this, as this is a first for me.

My first lapraotomy (down the middle incision) was back in 2004 followed by another one a few months later for an obstrucion. My most recent surgery was in April 2009 which was another lapraotomy. I then had another surgery in early September 2009. So I guess a total of 4 surgeries? Yuck. So, this most recent surgery really has been giving me trouble. I have had this searing, intense abdominal pain (in one area) that happens whenever I cough, sneeze, go to the bathroom or stand up for too long. I regularly exercise but have really taken it down a level. I have been wearing an abdominal support (originally for your lower back) for the last few months and at first it seemed like it was helping, but I am back to the pain. I have looked on the internet to see the symptoms I'm experiencing, but do not think I have the "bulge" that seems to be common with a hernia. I know it's muscular, but not sure what it is. Please help!!!

shern1982
Joined Jul 31, 2009

Mon, January 04, 2010 1:00 AM

Reply posted for nana.

Well, I actually went to the ER last week to get this checked out and they did a CT scan with contrast and it did not show that I had any type of hernia or adhesion. I think most of my pain is nerve related from what I can tell and from talking to the doctors. I have continued to take it easy and I think it is actually getting a little better. He explained to me that nerves are the last step in healing. Which makes sense, since I still have portions of my abdomen that are numb. Thanks to everyone that posted something. I really appreacite it.

shern1982
Joined Jul 31, 2009

Fri, January 01, 2010 10:31 AM

Reply posted for nana.

There are all kinds of hernias. A hernia just means some tissue (often intestines, but can be the stomach in hiatial hernias), is buldging through an opening somewhere, so depending on where it is you may not feel it. The ones you may feel most are around the belly button and groin areas. I don't know if you have a hernia, but its worth checking out. Hiatial hernias (stomach moves up into the chest cavity through a hole that is naturally present in the diaphram) may be very painful, or pain free. Right now you don't know if you have adhesions or a hernia of some sort, or just keep straining your abdominal muscles due to their being weak from all the surgeries. Getting it checked out may help you feel better sooner then wondering...just a thought.

titan1
Joined Sep 1, 2008

Fri, January 01, 2010 1:00 AM

Reply posted for shern1982.

I've had a similar problem as well and can't really find any explanation.

It almost feels like a searing/tearing pain just by the navel. It's really bad but doesn't last very long - but wipes you out. I was wondering if it was from adhesions ? I have an appt with my specialist on Jan 5 and I'm going to ask him about it. I have heard of people getting hernias from their surgeries - but I don't have any bulge either ???

nana
Joined Jun 12, 2008

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