Epigastric Hernia in Women: Pictures, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Epigastric Hernia Pictures, Symptoms, and Treatment in Females

An epigastric hernia is a type of abdominal wall hernia that occurs in the middle upper abdomen right below the ribcage. While hernias can occur in both males and females, there are some key differences when it comes to epigastric hernias in women.

Below we will look at pictures of epigastric hernias in females, explore the symptoms and causes, and discuss how doctors diagnose and treat this condition.

What Does an Epigastric Hernia Look Like in Females?

Here are some epigastric hernia pictures showing what they look like in women:

• A noticeable lump or bulge right below the sternum and ribcage in the middle upper abdomen.
• Sometimes the lump is more visible when standing up versus lying down.
• The epigastric hernia may get larger, smaller, harder, or softer depending on position.
• The skin over the hernia will remain normal without redness, bruising, or openings.
• The lump is usually round or oval-shaped and can range from pea-sized to several inches wide.
• Epigastric hernias are typically slow-growing and painless.

What Causes Epigastric Hernias?

Epigastric hernias happen when an internal part of the body pushes through a weak spot or opening in the surrounding muscle or tissue. Here are some common causes:

• Congenital defect - Some babies are born with a weakness in the abdominal wall muscles that can later turn into a hernia.
• Pregnancy - Increased intra-abdominal pressure from the growing fetus and uterus can strain the abdominal wall and muscles.
• Obesity or rapid weight gain - Excess weight places more pressure on the abdominal cavity and muscles.
• Chronic coughing or sneezing - Repeatedly increases intra-abdominal pressure.
• Constipation and straining during bowel movements.
• Heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
• Prior abdominal surgery - Can create defects or weak spots in the muscles.
• Family history of hernias.

Are Epigastric Hernias Common in Females?

While inguinal hernias in the groin are more common in males, epigastric hernias occur more frequently in women. Pregnancy is a major risk factor, as the growing uterus places strain on the abdominal wall muscles. Epigastric hernias affect up to 5% of pregnant women.

Women are also at greater risk for epigastric hernias later in life due to natural loss of muscle mass with aging. Post-menopausal women tend to develop more hernias than pre-menopausal women.

Symptoms of an Epigastric Hernia

The most obvious symptom is a noticeable lump or bulge in the upper middle abdomen below the ribs. Typical epigastric hernia symptoms include:

• Visible lump that may change in size depending on body position.
• Sensation of heaviness, burning, or aching around the lump.
• More noticeable lump when standing, bending, coughing, or straining.
• Abdominal discomfort that worsens throughout the day.
• Feeling of fullness without actual bloating.
• A high percentage have no symptoms at all.

While pain and discomfort can occur, epigastric hernias are less likely to become acutely painful than other types like inguinal hernias. But any increasing pain or sudden severe pain should prompt urgent medical attention.

Potential Complications

While most epigastric hernias are small and don't cause major problems, some potential complications include:

• Incarceration - Contents of the hernia become trapped and blood supply is cut off. Requires emergency surgery.
• Strangulation - Extreme version of incarceration where trapped tissue begins dying. Life-threatening.
• Obstruction - Hernia causes blockage of intestines or stomach.
• Perforation - An organ contained in the hernia ruptures or tears.

Severe pain, nausea/vomiting, and an irreducible lump are signs of complication requiring urgent medical care. But with epigastric hernias, this is fortunately quite rare compared to inguinal hernias.

How Are Epigastric Hernias Diagnosed?

If a woman notices signs of an epigastric hernia, the doctor will start with a physical exam. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Medical history - Discuss risk factors, pregnancy status, medications, symptoms, etc.
• Physical exam - Look for a visible bulge, especially when standing or coughing.
• Imaging tests - May involve ultrasound, CT scan or MRI to confirm hernia diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Doctors can often make a diagnosis just from the external lump and medical history. But imaging gives valuable information about the hernia size, location, and contents.

Epigastric Hernia Treatment Options

For asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic hernias, doctors often just recommend watchful waiting. Treatment options include:

• Watchful waiting - If the hernia is small and not causing problems, simply monitoring it over time may be appropriate.
• Lifestyle changes - Losing weight, avoiding heavy lifting, managing constipation.
• Prescription medications - Drugs that reduce abdominal straining can help prevent worsening.
• Surgery - Repair may be recommended for larger, painful, or problematic hernias.

Surgery is the only way to fully fix an epigastric hernia. This can be done open or laparoscopically depending on the size and contents of the hernia. Recovery is usually fairly quick with few complications.

Can an Epigastric Hernia Go Away on Its Own?

Small epigastric hernias rarely disappear on their own. The protruding tissue or organ has already pushed through the abdominal wall defect, and the opening tends to naturally widen over time. However, lifestyle changes can often prevent it from substantially growing or becoming symptomatic.

Preventing Epigastric Hernias in Females

Preventive tips include:

• Achieve or maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat a high fiber diet to avoid constipation and straining.
• Avoid smoking, which triggers coughing.
• Use proper lifting techniques and get help with heavy loads.
• Do kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles during pregnancy.
• Wear an abdominal binder or support belt during pregnancy.
• Speak with your doctor before becoming pregnant if you've had a hernia.

While not always preventable, being mindful of at-risk activities and getting prompt treatment for symptoms can help manage epigastric hernias in females.

Conclusion

Epigastric hernias are abdominal wall hernias in the upper middle region just below the sternum. They are more common in women due to pregnancy straining abdominal muscles. Risk factors also include obesity, chronic coughing, constipation, and aging.

Symptoms consist primarily of a visible or palpable lump that may change in size depending on position. While usually painless, epigastric hernias can sometimes cause discomfort or serious complications.

Doctors diagnose epigastric hernias in females from medical history and physical exam, sometimes using imaging tests. Watchful waiting, lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery are treatment options.

Prevention comes down to maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding strain on the abdomen, and building core muscle strength. Being aware of the signs and talking to your doctor can help identify epigastric hernias early.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.