Strangulation. An incarcerated hernia can cut off blood flow to part of your intestine. Strangulation can lead to the death of the affected bowel tissue. A strangulated hernia is life-threatening and requires immediate surgery.

Can a hernia burst and kill you?

A strangulated hernia is when your intestine is trapped so tightly that its blood supply is cut off. The part of the intestine that isn't getting enough blood can burst and die and, if not treated, can kill you.

Can hernia cause sudden death?

Sudden death in an adult due to an undiagnosed congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a very rare occurrence. The majority of adult-onset diaphragmatic hernia is associated with trauma.