If left untreated, your hernia may grow and become more painful. A portion of your intestine could become trapped in the abdominal wall. This can obstruct your bowel and cause severe pain, nausea, bloating or constipation.An untreated hernia can also put too much pressure on nearby tissues. This can cause swelling and pain in the surrounding area. If the trapped section of your intestines doesn’t get enough blood flow, strangulation occurs.This can cause the intestinal tissue to become infected or die. A strangulated hernia is life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.