General Surgery Signs & Symptoms

General Surgery Signs & Symptoms

Signs & Symptoms: Skin Problems, Hernias & More

Hernias:

A hernia can occur in individuals of any age. If you feel pain or notice a bulge or lump in the groin, umbilical area or along an incision, you should consult a physician. There are several different kinds of hernias; incisional, inguinal, ventral, umbilical and hiatal hernias. Hernias can become incarcerated or strangulated (a condition in which herniated tissue becomes trapped inside the hernial sack) and when this occurs, you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

An incarcerated hernia differs from a regular hernia in that it is not reducible, it is always painful or tender to the touch, and often times it is accompanied by symptoms of nausea, vomiting and fever. Anyone with a hernia who experiences a sudden increase in pain or any of these symptoms should contact a medical provider immediately.

Skin Lesions:

Any skin lesion that has noticeably changed in color or increased in size should be shown to a physician. You should also consult a physician regarding any skin lesions that bleed, itch or are painful. Not all lesions are cancers, but you should pay attention and consult a physician if you notice any of the above.

Breast Lumps:

If you detect a lump in your breast or feel something different in your breast, that wasn’t felt before on a previous self examination, you should seek a medical opinion regarding the finding. Consult your health care provider if you experience any of these symptoms, as these are some of the early warning signs of breast cancer:

• Lump, hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast
• Change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot that doesn’t go away

Gallbladder Disease or Gallstones:

• Moderate to severe right upper quadrant pain or pain that radiates through to the back onto the right shoulder
• Nausea, vomiting, indigestion
• Pain that occurs following meals