Can I Diagnose Myself?

It helps to have an idea of what a hernia is. See Types of Hernia.

In basic terms, a hernia is simply a hole or a defect - through which something can protrude. The hole itself is often not really painful (unless the hernia strangulates ) – just uncomfortable when something pushes through.

When something protrudes through the hole – usually intestine or the fat around the intestine – you will see or feel a swelling under the skin. It is the swelling or lump that is there when you stand or cough and that goes away when you lie down. This is the most common and obvious sign of a hernia.

No swelling or lump to see or feel means no hernia, but a hernia is not always obvious to the patient and a proper examination by an experienced practitioner is often required.

Diagnosis

To summarise – in cases where there is an obvious swelling in the areas of the abdomen or the groin, commonly associated with where hernias can occur, and which is more obvious when you cough, strain or stand up and which gets smaller or goes completely when you lie down. No other tests are usually needed.

See the section on sport, groin pain and hernia

Would I need any tests, x-rays or scans?

Not usually and even less if you are examined by a clinician with extensive experience in diagnosing all kinds of hernias. However in a small number of cases, where the symptoms are inconclusive, there are special tests that can be performed.

  • Ultrasound
    Similar to the ultrasound exam used on pregnant women. Ultrasound gives a shadowy black and white picture.
  • The result is operator dependent, meaning it depends on who is doing it.
  • CT scan
    Uses x-rays
CT scan showing a cross-section of a human abdomen, highlighting various internal organs.
  • MRI scan
    Uses magnetism. A good, modern test. A dynamic MRI, where patients are asked to hold their breath or cough to induce a hernia, is more sensitive in detecting small intermittent hernias

However, in the vast majority of cases, special  tests are not needed and your doctor or surgeon should be able to confirm just on examination. More challenging diagnoses are best performed by experienced hernia specialists.

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