GENERAL HEALTH CONCERN

Hernia

Also called: hernia, bulge in groin, belly button bulge, umbilical hernia, inguinal hernia, umbilical hernia, belly button hernia, navel hernia, belly button lump

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue that normally contains it.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Muscle weakness, straining and increased abdominal pressure

TREATED BY

Hernia repair surgery and symptom management

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

Most abdominal and groin hernias develop when pressure from inside the abdomen acts against an area of weakened muscle or connective tissue. Some areas are naturally more vulnerable, particularly the inguinal canals in the groin and the opening around the belly button. Weakness may be present from birth or develop gradually as tissues change with age. This can allow fatty tissue or part of the intestine to protrude through the weakened area, creating a lump that may become more noticeable when standing, coughing or straining.

Factors that repeatedly increase pressure inside the abdomen can contribute to hernia formation or make an existing weakness more apparent. These include heavy lifting or repeated physical strain, chronic coughing, constipation and straining during bowel movements, pregnancy and excess body weight. Previous abdominal surgery can also leave a weakened area in the abdominal wall, allowing an incisional hernia to develop. However, hernias are not always caused by one particular activity, and lifting something heavy may reveal an existing weakness rather than create the entire problem suddenly.

There are several types of hernia. Inguinal hernias occur in the groin and are among the most common, while femoral hernias develop slightly lower in the groin. Umbilical hernias occur around the belly button, and incisional hernias develop through or near a previous surgical scar. A hiatus hernia is different: part of the stomach moves upwards through an opening in the diaphragm and may contribute to acid reflux rather than producing an external lump. Most hernias are not immediately dangerous, but abdominal-wall hernias can occasionally trap bowel or other tissue. If its blood supply becomes compromised, this is known as a strangulated hernia and requires emergency treatment.

How far along is it?

Early

A small lump or swelling may appear when standing, coughing, lifting or straining and disappear when lying down. There may be little or no discomfort.

Moderate

The hernia becomes more noticeable or larger and may cause aching, pressure, dragging or discomfort during physical activity. The lump may remain present more frequently but may still be reducible.

Advanced

The hernia becomes trapped and cannot be pushed back into place. If the trapped tissue becomes obstructed or loses its blood supply, bowel obstruction or strangulation can occur and emergency treatment may be necessary.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Hernia repair→Groin hernia repair→Belly button hernia repair→

A new or unexplained lump in the abdomen or groin is worth having professionally assessed, even when it causes little pain. Assessment can confirm whether it is a hernia, identify the type and determine whether monitoring or treatment is appropriate.

Seek advice if an existing hernia is becoming larger, increasingly uncomfortable or interfering with exercise, work or everyday activities. Not every hernia requires immediate surgery, and the appropriate approach depends on its type, symptoms and risk of complications.

Seek urgent medical attention if a hernia becomes suddenly very painful, firm or tender, cannot be pushed back in when it previously could, or is associated with vomiting, abdominal swelling or inability to pass stool or wind. Redness or discolouration over a painful hernia is also concerning. These symptoms can indicate obstruction or strangulation and require emergency assessment.

Quick Questions:

What does a hernia feel or look like?

Many abdominal or groin hernias cause a lump or swelling that becomes more noticeable when standing, coughing or straining. Some cause aching, pressure or a dragging sensation, while others are painless.

What causes a hernia?

A hernia develops when tissue pushes through a weak area of muscle or connective tissue. Age-related weakness, natural anatomy, previous surgery and increased abdominal pressure from coughing, straining, pregnancy or physical exertion can contribute.

Can a hernia go away on its own?

Most hernias in adults do not repair themselves because the underlying weakness or opening remains. However, not every hernia requires immediate treatment, and some can be monitored following medical assessment.

When does a hernia become an emergency?

A hernia may become an emergency if bowel or other tissue becomes trapped or its blood supply is restricted. Sudden severe pain, a firm irreducible lump, vomiting, abdominal swelling or inability to pass stool or wind requires urgent medical attention.