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Is Noticeable Bloating In The Front Area Between Rib Cage Along With Pressure A Sign Of Hernia?

Posted on Mon, 25 Mar 2024

Question: I think I have a hialtial ? hernia. Front area between rib cage is extended and bloating with pressure. I have to take heartburn meds daily.I look like I am 6months pregnant my lower stomach is bloated as well and I am having trouble with bowel movements and expelling gas!When I rise from a reclining area there is an area that sticks out.

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please follow up with additional details

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Thank you for trusting us.

I have gone through your query. However, please follow up with the following additional details so that I can give you a definite answer
-How long have you been experiencing heartburn?
-Have you noticed any relief with nexium?
-How frequently do you have bowel movements?
-Could you please specify which area protrudes when you rise up?
-Have you ever undergone a colonoscopy? If so, when and what were the results?
-Have you noticed a change in color or blood in stools?

Awaiting
Dr.Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (2 days later)

The frequent heartburn started about 6 months ago and is becoming a nightly problem .I am taking Zantac instead of Nexium and it does give me relief.My bowel movements are every 2 to 3 days and I have not noticed blood in my stool. I have not had a colonoscopy . I have had an appendectomy and my gallbladder removed as well as a complete hysterectomy. The gas and bloating started about the same time as the heartburn. Previously, I hadn't had any problem with these issues but this also corresponds with the stronger R A medication. I was accepted for a research
study and when I was being examined the Dr.commented that I might have the hernia when I came to a sitting position. The protrusion starts at the top of my rib cage in the middle and goes to my waistline. I am heavy but really never had this problem because of where it is, i really do look pregnant but I am 67 years old and the area that protrudes feels hard.

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Rule out retus sheath hernia

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,

Your symptoms and the location of the protrusion are suggestive of rectus sheath hernia. This occurs due to weakened abdominal wall causing the bowels to protrude. It can lead to bowel obstruction, constipation, gas and bloating symptoms. This can also contribute to the frequent heart burn.
Abdominal examination and CT scan can confirm the diagnosis. Management is with surgical repair.
Please be advised to follow up with your primary care provider for further evaluation and management.

Meanwhile, avoid smoking if you do so.
Follow healthy diet and do cardio daily to maintain healthy weight.
Continue Zantac.
Eat small portions of food. Include frequent small meals rather than 3 large meals.
Raise the head end on bed using blocks under the bed pole to reduce heart burn.
Avoid spicy food and carbonated drinks.
It is also best to undergo screening colonoscopy as you are above 50 years.

Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (4 days later)

I am confused brief answer said to rule out rectus sheath hernia. Detailed answer says it could be a the cause. I just went three and 1/2 dats with no bowel movement. I was in pain from the pressure. I took 2 colon cleanser tablets for a little relief . Then I took two laxatives as well. I finally had a bowel movement but the area has gone down considerably but the bloating and gas are starting again.

I am on medicare so I don't need a referral. So what kind of Doctor should i see and let him examine me and schedule the colonoscopy or CT scan.

I do not want to go thru another weekend like I just had. I try not to over react but
I think there is a problem and it seems to be worsening. Please advise!
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Answer detailed below

Detailed Answer:
Since the protrusion subsided with bowel movement you don't have to worry about rectus sheath hernia.
You can follow up with a Gastroenterologist to undergo CT scan and colonoscopy.
Meanwhile, eat high fiber diet, drink plenty of water and use dulcolax to relieve constipation.
You can also take over the counter Simethicone to relieve gas.

Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (11 hours later)

Ok , It is not as large but it still there it is still hard and hurts when i press down.
I ate salad for dinner and grapenuts for breakfast and with the help of 2 laxatives
Ihad my first substanial B M and alot of the pressure gave me some relief but i am still bloated and the spot is still hard but not sticking out as much!

XXXX

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Symptoms likely due to constipation

Detailed Answer:
Hi again,

Your symptoms are most pointing towards constipation. Please follow the recommendations detailed in above discussion.

Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy