Is it safe to travel with a hernia?

Be Aware of Risks: Patients must be aware of the risks that go along with not having hernias surgically repaired. These include an increase in pain and the size of the hernia. More importantly, if the intestine becomes trapped in the hernia pouch, obstruction may occur with sudden pain and vomiting. This requires an immediate operation with a possible resection of the involved intestine.

Be Aware of Risks: A hernia is considered reducible if it can be pushed back in and incarcerated if it cannot. Acutely incarcerated hernias require emergency attention since intestine may be "stuck" inside the hernia and the blood supply to the intestine may be clamped doown from the hernia. The risk of hernia incarceration varies with the size and location of the hernia; i advise surgical consultation pre-travel.