The symptoms of hernia can range from barely noticeable to significantly debilitating, depending on the type, size, and severity of the hernia.
Recognising these symptoms early helps you get the right care and avoid serious problems like strangulation. Most people notice a bulge, discomfort, or pressure in the area where the hernia has formed. However, the exact signs can vary. The location of the hernia and whether it’s trapped or freely moving both affect what you feel.
Common Warning Signs
A bulge or lump under the skin is often the first thing people notice. It becomes more visible when you stand, cough, lift heavy things, or strain while using the bathroom. When you lie down, this bulge may shrink or disappear. This is more likely in the early stages when the hernia is still easy to push back. Over time, the lump may grow as the hernia worsens.
Pain is also a common symptom. The type and area of pain usually match the hernia’s location. For example, inguinal hernias often cause a sharp or dull ache in the groin, which can spread to the inner thigh or scrotum in men. Femoral hernias, found lower in the upper thigh, can feel like other pelvic or muscle problems. Umbilical hernias near the belly button may cause pain or tenderness when you cough or lift.
Hiatal hernias show up differently. They happen inside the body when part of the stomach pushes into the chest. These symptoms of hernia often look like acid reflux or GERD. Signs include heartburn, food coming back up, chest pain, trouble swallowing, or feeling too full after small meals. Lying down or bending over can make these worse.
Serious and Less Obvious Symptoms
Severe, sudden pain is a red flag. It may mean the hernia has become trapped (incarcerated) or the tissue inside is dying (strangulated). Other warning signs include skin turning red or purple over the hernia, nausea, vomiting, fever, and not being able to pass gas or go to the toilet. These are medical emergencies and need urgent surgery.
Some symptoms of hernia are more subtle. A feeling of pressure, heaviness, or a dull ache—especially after activity—can be an early sign. People often describe it as a dragging or pulling feeling. This happens most in the groin, belly button, or abdomen. These sensations usually get worse during the day or after lifting or coughing.
Larger or internal hernias can upset your digestion. Bloating, constipation, heartburn, or nausea might appear. At first, you might think these are regular stomach issues. But over time, a pattern may form—especially if symptoms show up after physical strain or certain body positions.
In babies, hernias may appear as soft lumps when they cry, cough, or strain. These usually aren’t painful. Still, if a baby seems very fussy, refuses food, or vomits, it could mean a serious issue like incarceration. All child hernias should be checked by a doctor, even if they seem harmless at first.
Sometimes, hernias don’t cause any symptoms at all. Doctors often find them by accident during check-ups or scans for something else. Even if they don’t hurt, these hernias can grow or cause problems over time. Watching them closely helps catch any changes early.
When Symptoms Get Worse
You may notice the symptoms of hernia vary depending on time of day, activity level, or body position. Pain often gets worse later in the day—especially after standing or doing physical tasks. Lying down may ease the symptoms, but they often return once you start moving again. These ups and downs can make diagnosis tricky without a full medical check.
In short, symptoms of hernia range from mild discomfort and bulging to dangerous emergencies. Pay close attention to any changes in size, pain, or digestion. Seeing a doctor early leads to better care and lowers the risk of complications. By knowing and tracking the symptoms of hernia, you stay in control of your health and can act quickly if things get worse.
