Signs and Symptoms

Hernia causes and symptoms explained

Hernias are a common medical condition that occur when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue.¹ Most hernias are caused by a combination of pressure and an opening or weakness of muscle or connective tissue. While muscle weakness may be present at birth, an increase in abdominal pressure or certain risk factors may make you more prone to developing hernias later in life.²

Hernia symptoms most often include a visible or palpable bulge, pressure, or discomfort that worsens with coughing, lifting, or straining. However, some hernias can cause no pain at all.

What are the most common hernia symptoms?

Hernia symptoms can range from mild discomfort to signs that require urgent medical attention. They can also vary based on the type of hernia you have, but most often they appear as a bulge that may come with discomfort or pressure. Symptoms may become more noticeable when you lift, cough, or strain. The lists below outline the most common and urgent symptoms to help you understand what you may be experiencing.^1,2

Common symptoms

A new or unexplained bulge in your abdomen or groin area
Discomfort or pain in your belly, groin, site of a previous surgery, or when you bend or lift something
Acid reflux, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or regurgitation
A feeling of weakness in the affected area
A constant feeling of being full

Urgent symtpoms

Severe pain
Nausea/vomiting
Bulge that won’t go back in

If you have experienced any of the above common symptoms, you may want to consult a physician about a possible hernia. If you are experiencing urgent symptoms, you should not delay seeking medical attention. To access the full list, download our Signs & Symptoms Checklist below and bring it with you to your appointment.

See Hernia Signs & Symptoms Checklist

The different types of hernias and their symptoms

Different types of hernias are usually defined by where they occur in the body, and each type can cause different symptoms or levels of discomfort. The most common include inguinal hernias in the groin, femoral hernias just below the groin, umbilical hernias near the belly button, incisional hernias that form at the site of a previous surgical incision, and hiatal hernias that push up into the chest through the diaphragm. Understanding the differences between hernia types can help you recognize what you may be experiencing. Click through to learn more about each.

A hernia can feel different from person to person.

Common sensations include:

A dull ache, pressure, or heaviness in the affected area.
Pain that worsens with lifting, coughing, or standing.
A sharp or sudden pain that comes on quickly.
Sometimes no pain at all, especially early on.

Some people also notice a bulge, while others may only feel discomfort or tenderness.

Several conditions can cause hernia-like symptoms.

These conditions can include:

Muscle strains or pulled muscles.
Swollen lymph nodes.
Ovarian cysts or fibroids (in women).
Hip or groin injuries.
Digestive issues that cause bloating or pressure.

Because symptoms can overlap, a proper exam and imaging are often needed to confirm whether it’s truly a hernia.

Learn more about Conditions That Could Be Mistaken for A Hernia →

Hernia symptoms can feel different for men and women.

Men often notice a visible bulge in the groin or abdomen, especially when standing, coughing, or lifting. Men tend to be at a higher risk of inguinal hernias due to their anatomy.⁵
Women may not see a bulge at all. Hernias in women tend to be smaller and deeper, and are more likely to cause ongoing pelvic discomfort or sudden, sharp pain that can linger.⁶

For children and infants, hernia symptoms can sometimes be difficult to communicate.

Look out for:⁷

A lump or swelling near the groin or belly button.
Pain or tenderness around the groin or lower belly.
Unexplained crying or fussiness.
A visible bulge that gets bigger during straining, crying or coughing.

Learn more about Hernias in Babies and Children →

It’s important to know that hernias will not heal on their own.

However, patients have multiple care options including different surgical approaches and repair materials.

5 steps to take if you think you may have a hernia

So, you think you may have a hernia — now what? Here’s a quick overview of the key steps patients can take when they suspect a hernia:

Recognize the signs: Look for a bulge in the belly or groin, discomfort, or symptoms that worsen with coughing, lifting, or standing.
Talk with a hernia surgeon: A specialist can confirm your diagnosis, explain repair options, and help you understand whether mesh or a specific surgical approach is right for you.
Understand your hernia type: Inguinal, femoral, umbilical, incisional, and hiatal hernias each form in different areas and may feel different.
Learn ways to manage symptoms: Lifestyle changes like smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, maintaining a healthy weight, or using a hernia belt may help reduce discomfort.
Explore treatment options: Most hernias require surgical repair, though “watch and wait” may be appropriate for small, painless hernias.

Read the full 5‑step guide

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Signs and Symptoms | Hernia Info

Hernia causes and symptoms explained

What are the most common hernia symptoms?

The different types of hernias and their symptoms

Common hernia symptom questions

5 steps to take if you think you may have a hernia

Find a hernia surgeon near you

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