Identifying and Diagnosing Hernia Symptoms in Women

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 31, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Women with hernias are usually at the disadvantage of a medical community that is used to diagnosing the majority of hernias in men. While it is true that women only account for 8 percent of hernia patients, the relative rarity of their occurrence in women makes it more likely that doctors may misdiagnose their pain. Luckily for female patients, Dr. Shirin Towfigh, M.D., F.A.C.S of the Beverly Hills Hernia Center is an expert at detecting women's hernia symptoms. She explains that, "In women you have ovaries, you have a uterus, they can have fibroids, many have had C-sections. All of that can complicate a diagnosis."

But, unlike other doctors, Dr. Towfigh won't let any of those things get in the way of securing a correct and complete diagnosis for her female patients. If you or a woman you know has experienced any of the following symptoms, a consultation with Dr. Towfigh – the Western United States' only surgical specialist in abdominal wall hernias -- may be in order.

1. Pain – The earliest warning sign that a patient may be suffering from a hernia is if they feel persistent pain in their lower abdomen or groin. Hernia sufferers usually first experience pain after some sort of singular movement like lifting, coughing, or twisting that puts strain on the abdominal wall. Often this pain will slowly subside and then come back immediately the next time that motion or action is repeated. Persistent pain is the easiest determinant of a chronic problem like a hernia.
2. Lumps – While there is not always an external lump or bulge with a hernia, it is the most common indicator that a hernia is present. Often, hernia bulges in women are less visible than in men, especially when lying down, complicating a hernia diagnosis. Other times, a lump is only present in times of stress, like when coughing. If there is a bulge that feels rigid or will not go back into the body, this is referred to as a strangulated hernia, and it requires immediate medical attention.
3. Constipation – Because a hernia is often created by a portion of the small intestine pressing through the abdominal wall, it can negatively affect the digestive system. By constricting the small intestine, a hernia can cause constipation and other digestive problems.

While these three things are good for patients to know in order to identify any early warning signs of a hernia, it takes a consultation with an experienced hernia specialist like Dr. Towfigh to know for sure that it is a hernia causing you pain. If you or any man or woman in your life is suffering from any of the above symptoms, consult the guidance of Dr. Towfigh today. You can contact Dr. Towfigh's office at 310-358-5020 or at www.BeverlyHillsHerniaCenter.com.

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SOURCE Beverly Hills Hernia Center