Can a Hernia Cause Nausea?
Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 21st, 2026.
Yes, hernias can cause nausea, especially when complications develop. Strangulated hernias, which occur in approximately 5-15% of cases, cut off blood supply to trapped tissue and frequently trigger nausea and vomiting. Incarcerated hernias, where intestinal contents become trapped, can also cause nausea due to bowel obstruction. Large hiatal hernias may cause nausea by affecting stomach positioning and digestion. Simple hernias without complications rarely cause nausea directly, but may contribute to digestive discomfort. If you experience persistent nausea with a known hernia, especially accompanied by severe pain, vomiting, or inability to push the hernia back in, seek immediate medical attention as this may indicate a surgical emergency.
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