If I've been taking 1  ... People with chronic illnesses may decide against surgery if hernias are not incarcerated or strangulated. 2  It usually is appropriate to repair a hernia. 3  But a balance of length of life, how much the hernia is bothering you, and your wishes will be taken into account.f I've been taking 1  ... People with chronic illnesses may decide against surgery if hernias are not incarcerated or strangulated. 2  It usually is appropriate to repair a hernia. 3  But a balance of length of life, how much the hernia is bothering you, and your wishes will be taken into account.