I am a female, age 27, experiencing frequent sharp cramp-like pains in my lower right abdomen. Similar pains have occurred over the past few years but they were infrequent, though they have increased in frequency and the pain sensation has heightened as of late. These pains have occurred daily throughout the past week and became almost debilitating directly following sex. I have had three surgeries on my right abdominal area-- two for femoral hernias (roughly a year apart) between ages 15-16, and an appendectomy at age 17.
Prior to the hernia operations (both open surgery, the second more invasive) I could see the golf ball sized bulge protruding from my lower abdominal/pelvic area. After double surgery, the scar tissue is too dense to allow visual confirmation. Is there any way for a person in my situation to identify the symptoms of a recurring hernia prior to scheduling testing? My work involves intense lifting/pushing/handling of equipment that often weighs several hundred pounds for anywhere between 8-18 hours in a day and I may very well have invited my intestines to break out of their abdominal cage once again. Other possible symptoms that may be unrelated: fatigue, chronic neck/shoulder pain (tmj/migraine), difficulty concentrating, newer gastrointestinal complications (relatively frequent constipation, sometimes resulting in mucus in stool, other times seem normal). Anyways. Any opinions offered are appreciated. I will be seeing a doctor regarding these issues but my insurance will not take effect until March. Thank you for your time and assistance!