A hernia occurs when internal tissues or organs push through a tear or weak spot in your muscles, resulting in a bulge or bump. Hernias typically develop in the intestines or stomach, causing a bulge in the abdomen. While many hernias are asymptomatic (meaning they don’t cause noticeable symptoms), they can lead to pain, discomfort, and tenderness, depending on the type of hernia.

Understanding the symptoms of a hernia is essential for knowing when to seek medical attention. Some people may experience flare-ups, while others may have mild, consistent symptoms.

Common Symptoms

Though many types of hernias exist, they share some common characteristics. Typical signs of a hernia include:

  • Formation of a bulge or lump on the chest, stomach, back, sides, groin, or upper thigh

  • Swelling around the hernia site

  • Pain, discomfort, burning, or itching near the bulge

  • Worsening pain during activities like coughing, lifting, or straining

Inguinal Hernia Symptoms

Inguinal hernias are the most common type, affecting 75% of abdominal hernia cases. They occur in the inguinal canal in the lower abdomen and groin area. Inguinal hernias happen when abdominal organs, like the intestines, push through weak muscle tissue.

Symptoms include:

  • A bulge and discomfort near the hernia site

  • Pain radiating from the hernia to the testicles, more common in people assigned male at birth

Hiatal Hernia Symptoms

A hiatal hernia develops when a tear or weakness in the diaphragm allows the upper stomach to push into the chest cavity. This can lead to stomach acids moving into the esophagus, increasing the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Symptoms may include:

  • Heartburn

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Persistent dry cough

  • Bad breath

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Trouble breathing

  • Tooth erosion

Femoral Hernia Symptoms

Femoral hernias are more common in individuals assigned female at birth and occur near the groin and thigh. These hernias occur when fatty tissue or part of the intestines pushes into the groin.

Symptoms include:

  • A tender lump on the groin or thigh

  • Stomach ache

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Difficulty passing bowel movements or gas

Umbilical Hernia Symptoms

Umbilical hernias occur when the tissue around the belly button becomes weak, allowing intestines or stomach lining to protrude.

Symptoms may include:

  • A painless bulge near or on the belly button

  • Bloating

  • Stomach aches

  • Soreness or tenderness

  • Difficulty passing gas or stool

  • Skin color changes at the site

Ventral Hernia Symptoms

Ventral hernias occur at the front of the abdomen when organs push through weak abdominal muscles. These hernias are also called incisional hernias if they develop after abdominal surgery.

Symptoms include:

  • A bulge and tenderness at the hernia site

  • Common locations: belly button, abdominal muscles, ostomy sites, groin, chest, or esophagus

Symptoms of Hernia Complications

Though rare, hernia complications can occur, such as strangulated hernia, which happens when the blood supply to the hernia is cut off. This condition requires immediate surgery.

Signs of complications include:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Difficulty passing gas or bowel movements

  • Slow heart rate

  • Low blood pressure

  • Redness at the hernia site

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If you suspect you have a hernia, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation. In most cases, hernias don’t require surgery or medication, but it’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Pain at the hernia site

  • Swelling or tenderness in the groin

  • A bulging lump, especially after surgery

  • Nausea, vomiting, or fever without another underlying cause

  • Changes in the hernia’s appearance or color

A Quick Review

Hernias occur when internal organs push through weak muscle tissue, resulting in a protruding lump. While many hernias don’t cause symptoms, others may cause pain, tenderness, or bloating. The symptoms often depend on the hernia’s location. If you suspect you have a hernia, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and to discuss potential treatment options.