If you’re worried that you might have a hernia and are looking for treatment, then one of your first questions is likely to be, “What does a hernia look like?” If that’s you, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the physical signs of a hernia, along with the types, causes, and treatment options.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue. The most common types of hernias are inguinal (inner groin), incisional (resulting from an incision), femoral (outer groin), umbilical (belly button), and hiatal (upper stomach).
Signs and Symptoms of a Hernia
While it’s true that some hernias don’t cause any noticeable symptoms, many do. Here are some signs that you could have a hernia:
- A lump or bulge in the affected area, usually noticeable when standing up and may disappear when lying down
- Pain or discomfort, particularly when lifting, bending, or coughing
- Feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen
- A dull ache
- In some cases, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or chest pain
What Does a Hernia Look Like?
The most obvious sign of a hernia is a bulge or lump in the area affected. This can often be felt under the skin. The size of the bulge can vary, but it’s generally more noticeable when standing up, straining, or lifting heavy objects. It may also become more obvious as the day progresses, especially after long periods of standing.
In the case of an inguinal hernia, the most common type, the bulge is often located in the groin area or lower abdomen. With an umbilical hernia, the bulge is usually around the belly button. However, remember that every hernia is unique, and its appearance can vary.
Diagnosing Hernias: What Your Doctor Will Look For
When you visit your doctor with concerns about a possible hernia, they will aim to confirm the diagnosis through a thorough evaluation before thinking about the hernia repair. This typically involves a physical examination and, in some cases, further testing. Let’s delve deeper into what your doctor will look for during this process.
Physical Examination
- Location of discomfort: Hernias most commonly occur in the abdominal area, particularly in the groin. You might feel pain, discomfort, or pressure in these areas, especially when coughing, bending over, or lifting heavy objects.
- Visible bulge: The most common sign of a hernia is a noticeable bulge under the skin. This bulge may seem to appear and disappear, becoming more noticeable when you’re standing up or straining and less obvious when you’re lying down.
- Palpation: Your doctor may ask you to stand, bend over, or cough while they gently press on your abdomen or groin. This is to feel for a possible hernia, which may push out under the strain and then retract when you relax.
Further Testing
- Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create a picture of your body’s internal structures, allowing your doctor to see if there’s a hernia present.
- X-ray or CT scan: These imaging tests provide a more detailed view of your body, helping your doctor identify hernias, particularly those that are smaller or located deeper within the body.
- Endoscopy: In this procedure, a thin tube with a camera at the end is inserted into your body, providing a direct view of your internal organs and allowing your doctor to spot any hernias.
By being aware of what to expect during a hernia examination and potential hernia repair, you can feel more prepared and empowered during your doctor’s visit. Remember, early detection and treatment of hernias, including timely hernia repair, can prevent complications and support a faster recovery.
If you suspect you might have a hernia, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice and inquire about hernia repair options with a professional health care provider like Surgical Associates.