Overview
A hernia is a bulge that appears when an internal part, usually a loop of bowel, pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall, most often in the groin or around the navel. It shows as a swelling that may come and go and can ache, especially on lifting or straining. Hernias do not heal on their own and are usually repaired with surgery, both to relieve symptoms and to prevent the dangerous complication of the bowel getting trapped.
Symptoms
- A bulge in the groin, navel or an old surgical scar
- A swelling that appears on standing, coughing or lifting
- Aching or dragging discomfort at the site
- A lump that can often be pushed back in when lying down
- Discomfort that worsens with straining
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for any new bulge to plan repair, and urgently if it becomes hard, painful and cannot be pushed back.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- A hernia that becomes firm, very painful, red, or comes with vomiting and cannot be pushed back — the bowel may be trapped, go to a hospital immediately
Causes
A weak spot in the muscle wall present from birth or developing later, combined with straining from heavy lifting, chronic cough or constipation.