Pain below the ribs. Pain while laughing and coughing. Do I have hernia?
Patient: Yes, since Thursday I have had a small quarter size pain in my stomach below my ribs but not deep inside my stomach but rather closer to the outside of my stomach. It s a short sharp pain that has been occurring only when I laugh hard, sneeze or cough . Just about an hour ago I bent down to pick up a toy off the floor and felt the sharpest pain ever, like a ripping feeling. I m thinking I have a hernia but not sure. I can actually touch the spot that hurts but there is no bulging like described on the mayo clinic sight. I m not trying to self diagnosis myself but rather get myself prepared for what my dr might tell me it is. Also wondering if next Friday is ok to wait for my appt. Doctor: Hello, HeatherRudd07, From your description and the location , it does sound like you have an "Epigastric Hernia ". If you also see a lump in that spot when you strain, or cough , that confirms it. It could be a very small defect and abdominal contents like small portion of the intestine can protrude through the defect. If the prtrusion stays and if you can't push it back, then it becomes an emergency situation. That is called as "Strangulated Hernia" and requires emergency surgery for correction. If you test yourself as above, you can wait till you see your doctor. In the mean time avoid heavy lifting etc. You can wear a velcro abdominal binder for protection. I wish you well.