While most hernias can be easily treated, the more complicated incarcerated hernia may cause serious complications. For best results, therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms of the condition early in order to achieve optimal treatment. The most common signs of an incarcerated hernia include pain at the site of the hernia, as well as an increase in fatigue and weakness. Patients who are suffering from an incarcerated hernia may also develop a bowel obstruction, gangrene, or even septic shock. Recognizing the signs of these conditions early can help to prevent serious complications from occurring.

One of the most common signs of an incarcerated hernia includes pain at the site of the hernia. This typically includes pain that increases in intensity with time. In addition, incarcerated hernias often feature bulges that are hard to the touch and lack the fleshy feel of the surrounding tissue.

Patients who suffer from an incarcerated hernia may also experience an increase in fatigue and weakness. As these symptoms are prevalent in a number of conditions, they usually are not used solely for incarcerated hernia diagnosis. It is important for patients who have experienced an increase in these symptoms, however, to evaluate their current health status for any other changes.

An incarcerated hernia can often lead to the development of a bowel obstruction. This happens most often when part of the intestinal tissue becomes trapped through a hernia opening. Patients whose incarcerated hernias have led to the development of a bowel obstruction typically experience nausea and vomiting. In addition, bowel movements may become increasingly difficult, or may be extremely painful. Patients suffering from a bowel obstruction brought on by an incarcerated hernia may also experience an increase in body temperature, and may become more irritable.

In some cases, an incarcerated hernia can lead to gangrene. Gangrene occurs when blood flow to body tissue becomes blocked. When this happens, the tissue starts to decay, and serious symptoms occur. Some of these symptoms include a blue or black tinge to the skin color, as well as numbness in the affected area. Gangrene is often very painful, and may cause even more pain than the incarcerated hernia.

In the most severe cases, septic shock may occur. Septic shock associated with an incarcerated hernia, however, is relatively rare, and usually occurs only when the condition is ignored and medical assistance is avoided. Those who have a high body temperature, experience dizziness and confusion, or have a high heart rate should seek medical help as soon as possible for the diagnosis and treatment of an incarcerated hernia.