Skip to content

Strangulated hernia

Top of the page

Strangulated hernia

A hernia is a condition in which tissue from inside the abdomen bulges out through a weak spot in the muscles of the abdominal wall. A strangulated hernia occurs when the tissue gets trapped very tightly in the hernia and its blood supply is cut off.

A strangulated hernia is rare but can cause bulging, swelling, and severe pain. In more serious cases, it can cause severe bleeding, death of the tissue (gangrene), and serious bacterial infection of the blood (septicemia).

Immediate surgery is always needed for a strangulated hernia.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.