Hernias may also occur in a weak area caused by an old surgical incision. If a hernia cannot be pushed back, it is termed incarcerated. Abdominal pain, pain over the hernia, and vomiting indicate a condition called strangulation. The blood supply within the strangulated hernia is cut off, and the herniated tissue dies unless an emergency operation is performed within a few hours. A femoral hernia on the inside of the upper thigh is most likely to become strangulated because the hole is small and the ligament above the femoral artery is strong and tight.
Treatment depends on the site of the hernia.
Hernias in the midline of the abdomen may not need treatment unless they are causing symptoms or are growing. If the patient is too old or not well enough for an operation, a device called a truss can be worn to keep an inguinal hernia in a reduced position.