A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body, such as the intestines or fatty tissue, pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin area. Below is an overview of hernia symptoms, types, and related information. (1)

Abdominal Hernia Symptoms

Symptoms of hernias can vary depending on the type, and some hernias may present with no symptoms at all. 

However, they commonly share the following symptoms: (1)

• Visible Bulge or Swelling Under the Skin:

The most common sign of a hernia is a visible bulge, which may be the only symptom. This bulge often becomes more noticeable during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as heavy lifting, coughing, or exercising, and usually disappears when lying down.

• Pain or No Pain:

While some individuals experience no discomfort, others report mild pain or discomfort, especially during physical activity.

Are Hernias Dangerous?

Most hernias are not dangerous but can become serious over time, particularly if part of the intestines or another organ becomes trapped, a condition known as a strangulated hernia. This can lead to severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and bowel obstruction. If the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off, the tissue may die, requiring urgent medical attention. (1)(4)

Types of Abdominal Hernias

Abdominal hernias are classified by their location and cause. Common types include: (5)

• Inguinal Hernia:

Occurs in the inguinal region (the skin fold just above the thigh) and is the most common type, especially among men.

• Umbilical Hernia:

Appears around the navel, either at birth (congenital) or later (acquired). It is more common in infants and young children.

• Femoral Hernia:

Slightly below the inguinal region, on the top of the thigh, it is more common in women.

• Incisional hernias:

Develop at the site of a previous surgical incision due to weakened abdominal muscles.

• Epigastric Hernia:

It is located in the upper abdomen, between the navel and chest.

• Hiatal Hernia:

Unlike other types, this hernia is not visible as an external bulge. It occurs when part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity (invisible).

The symptoms of hiatal hernia are different from other kinds of hernias, and they include the following:

• Heartburn: This is the most common symptom, resulting from the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.
• Regurgitation: The sensation of food or liquids rising back up into the mouth.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Difficulty swallowing caused by part of the stomach pressing on the esophagus.
• Feeling full shortly after eating.

** The congenital type of hiatal hernia is serious and requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of Abdominal Hernias

A hernia diagnosis can be made by your doctor through a simple visual check and gentle palpation of the area. The doctor may also ask the patient to cough or perform specific movements to assess the size of the hernia. (5)

In some cases, imaging tests are required to confirm the diagnosis, especially in obese patients, small hernias, and hiatal hernias. (5)

Abdominal Hernia Treatment

Hernias usually require surgical intervention, though not always immediately.

For smaller hernias that do not cause symptoms, doctors may recommend a watch-and-wait approach. However, most hernias tend to worsen over time, so surgical repair is often recommended, except for umbilical hernias in infants, which typically resolve on their own by age 4 or 5.

Surgery is the most effective treatment, it involves the repair of the abdominal wall to prevent recurrence. There are different types of hernia surgery, your surgeon will decide which type is the best for you, considering factors such as the size and location of the hernia, your general health, and your lifestyle. (6)

There are two main surgical approaches: (6)

• Open Surgery: An incision is made in the abdomen to repair the hernia and close it with surgical stitches.
• Laparoscopy: Small surgical instruments and cameras are inserted through tiny cuts in the abdomen.

At Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, our surgeons employ the latest surgical techniques to treat all types of hernias. We offer personalized care and advanced treatment options to ensure quick recovery. Schedule a consultation with our specialists today.

References

1. Hernia: What it is, Symptoms, Types, Causes & Treatment, Cleveland Clinic
2. Hernia: Symptoms and Treatment, WebMD
3. Hernia Surgery, American Society of Anesthesiologists
4. How to Tell If You Have a Hernia, Johns Hopkins Medicine
5. Hernias - types, causes and who's at risk,  Healthdirect
6. Hernia, NHS