Hernia symptoms vary depending on where the hernia is located.
Inguinal Hernia
Inguinal hernias refer to bulges in the groin area. They occur in a passageway called the inguinal canal, which runs alongside the pelvis and into the sex organs.
An inguinal hernia may include the following symptoms:
- A bulge alongside your pubic bone
- Pressure, heaviness, or pain in the groin area, especially when bending, coughing, lifting, or straining
- A burning sensation that radiates through the pelvis or down the leg
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia, and they affect about 25 percent of all men.
Umbilical Hernia
An umbilical hernia is a bulge that develops over the belly button. It occurs when part of the small intestine pushes through an opening in the abdominal wall.
Umbilical hernia symptoms may include a soft bulge near the belly button that comes and goes. Adults may also experience discomfort, pressure, or dull pain.
Umbilical hernias are the second-most common type of hernia. They’re more prevalent in newborns, babies, and young children than in adults.
Femoral Hernia
A femoral hernia occurs when fatty tissue pushes through the femoral canal, which is located in the upper thigh near the groin area.
Most femoral hernias don’t cause symptoms, but some people may develop a bulge in the upper thigh next to the groin area. Other symptoms include pain and discomfort in the groin area when standing, lifting, or straining.
Incisional Hernia
An incisional hernia is a bulge that develops near an incision site after surgery. It occurs when tissue pushes against a weakened muscle in the abdominal wall.
An incisional hernia may include the following symptoms:
- A bulge or lump near an incision, which may be more visible when standing or coughing
- Pain in your abdomen, especially around the lump
- Constipation or thin stools
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Congenital diaphragmatic hernias are rare and occur during prenatal development. They’re caused by a birth defect in the diaphragm, which is the muscle that separates the abdomen and chest. As a result, organs from the abdomen or chest may pass through the diaphragm.
A congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a newborn may include these symptoms:
- Fast heart rate
- Abnormal breathing
- Weakened breath sounds
- Stomach pain
- Sunken stomach
- Constipation
- Blue discoloration of the skin due to low oxygen levels
A congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a serious condition requiring intensive care.
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when the top of the stomach pushes through the esophagus — the tube that carries food from the pharynx (throat) to the stomach — and into your chest.
Most hiatal hernias don’t cause symptoms, and they can’t be seen on the outside of your body.
Hiatal hernias are more common in older people, affecting 50 percent of people over age 50.
Perineal Hernia
Perineal hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through the pelvic floor into the abdomen. Perineal refers to the perineum, which is the skin between the anus and genitals.
Perineal hernias don’t always cause symptoms. However, some people may experience the following:
- A pulling sensation when standing
- Difficulty urinating or producing a bowel movement
- An obstruction in the small or large intestine
- Swelling in one butt cheek
Perineal hernias are rare, usually occurring as a complication from pelvic surgery. They may also be due to illness or injury.
