This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
A hernia happens when an internal organ, usually part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall — most often in the groin or around the navel. It typically shows as a swelling that bulges when you stand, cough or lift, and shrinks when you lie down. Surgery is the only lasting fix.
Symptoms
A bulge in the groin, navel or near an old surgical scar
Swelling that gets bigger with coughing, straining or lifting
Dragging or heavy sensation
Aching or burning at the bulge
Bulge that reduces when lying flat
Causes & risk factors
Weakness in the abdominal wall (sometimes from birth)
Heavy lifting and strenuous labour
Chronic cough or straining at stool or urine
Obesity or previous abdominal surgery
Treatment & self-care
Hernias do not heal on their own; a surgeon repairs the weak spot, often with a mesh, as a planned operation. Until repair, avoid heavy lifting and treat constipation or chronic cough that worsens the bulge. Do not strap or tie the swelling tightly at home.
See a doctor urgently if
The bulge becomes suddenly painful, hard or cannot be pushed back
Vomiting with a tense, painful hernia
The skin over the swelling turns red or dark
You cannot pass stool or gas
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Hernia?
Early signs often include a bulge in the groin, navel or near an old surgical scar, swelling that gets bigger with coughing, straining or lifting, dragging or heavy sensation. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Hernia be treated?
Hernias do not heal on their own; a surgeon repairs the weak spot, often with a mesh, as a planned operation. Until repair, avoid heavy lifting and treat constipation or chronic cough that worsens the bulge. Do not strap or tie the swelling tightly at home.
When should I see a doctor about Hernia?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: the bulge becomes suddenly painful, hard or cannot be pushed back; vomiting with a tense, painful hernia; the skin over the swelling turns red or dark; you cannot pass stool or gas.