Symptoms of a Hernia
What Is A Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or tissue that normally holds it in place.
There are many different types of hernias and they can occur in different locations across the body but most commonly in the groin or abdomen area. The symptoms of a hernia vary depending on the type and severity of the hernia.
Symptoms You May Notice:
1. Visible Bulge or Lump
One of the most common signs of a hernia is a bulge or swelling under the skin at the site of the hernia. This may become more obvious when you stand, cough, lift, or strain and often reduces or disappears when lying down, as this is when the protruding tissue moves back into place. Many hernias are initially diagnosed because this lump is noticed by the person or their doctor.
2. Discomfort or Pain
Not all hernias are painful but some do cause mild discomfort, aching, pressure, or a dull ache at the site of the hernia. Pain can increase with activity, lifting heavy objects, bending over, or straining. In some cases, you may feel a burning or sharp sensation around the bulge.
3. Heaviness and Weakness
Some people describe a feeling of heaviness, weakness, or a dragging sensation in the affected area, especially toward the end of the day or after physical activity.
Types of Hernias
Different hernia types may present in specific ways:
- Groin Hernias (like inguinal hernias) - Usually present with a lump in the groin or upper thigh. Symptoms can include aching, heaviness, or discomfort when standing, coughing, or straining.
- Umbilical Hernias - Appear as a bulge near the belly button and may cause mild discomfort or a feeling of pressure, especially when bending or lifting.
- Hiatus Hernias - May not show an external lump but can cause heartburn, chest discomfort and reflux symptoms.
- Femoral Hernias - Appear as a small lump near the upper thigh or groin and may cause discomfort or pain.
- Epigastric Hernias - Develop in the upper abdomen between the breastbone and the belly button. Symptoms often include a small lump, aching or burning pain, and discomfort after eating or during physical activity.
- Incisional Hernias - Occur at the site of a previous surgical incision. They usually present as a bulge along a scar and may be associated with pain, pressure, or a feeling of weakness in the abdominal wall.
How we've helped make a difference
Frequently Asked Questions
Most hernias around the world are repaired by general surgeons as just one of the list of procedures they perform. Hernia is not a subject that has attracted enough interest generally to make it a specialised area. The slow development of modern hernia techniques is a result. We feel that hernia needs specialisation.
See also, why a specialist hernia centre.
The bulge is a very common symptom of hernia, but not all hernias have bulges…and not all groin pain is hernia.
To find out with more certainty in cases that are difficult to distinguish, you should be seen by a hernia specialist. For more information on confusing cases of groin injury click the link to Sport, Groin Pain and Hernia.
Most hernias, if not treated, do nothing more than get bigger. However, hernias can get very painful, often without warning and at their worst can strangulate, which can demand an ambulance and immediate emergency surgery or the consequences could be extreme.
No. It is unfortunately something that can afflict anyone. About one in ten of us will have one, which is an awfully large number.
There are several kinds of hernia, depending on where the muscle or tissue is weak. The most common is an inguinal hernia, which develops in the groin and is more common in men. Femoral hernias also occur in the groin and are more common in women. Umbilical hernias appear around the belly button, while incisional hernias develop through scars from previous surgery. The British Hernia Centre specialises in diagnosing and treating all types of hernia.
When Symptoms Become Urgent
While many hernias start with mild or no symptoms, urgent medical attention is needed if any of the following occur:
- Sudden, severe pain at the hernia site.
- A bulge that cannot be pushed back in or becomes firm and tender.
- Nausea or vomiting, fever, or inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement. These are signs that the herniated tissue may be trapped (incarcerated) or that blood supply is being cut off (strangulated).
- Redness or significant colour change of the skin over the hernia.
These symptoms can indicate complications that require emergency treatment to prevent serious outcomes.
Why Recognising Symptoms Matter
Hernia symptoms can range from a mild, painless lump to severe pain and serious complications. While some hernias cause little discomfort at first, they do not resolve on their own and often worsen over time.
Recognising the symptoms early and seeking medical advice can help prevent complications and allow for timely, planned treatment, rather than emergency surgery. Whether you notice a visible bulge, ongoing discomfort, digestive symptoms, or unexplained groin or abdominal pain, it’s important to have these symptoms assessed by a healthcare professional.
The British Hernia Centre
If you suspect you may have a hernia or your symptoms are changing or worsening, contact The British Hernia Centre to speak to one of our specialists.