There are many types of hernias, but they all have one thing in common: a weakness or hole in the abdominal wall that allows organs or tissue to protrude through. Hernias can be uncomfortable and even painful, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious health complications.
1Most types of hernias have common symptoms, and may include;
- Swelling or bulge
A hernia is an abnormal opening or protrusion of tissue or an organ through a body cavity. The most common symptom of a hernia is a bulge or swelling in the affected area. The swelling appears when the abdominal content (intestines) bulges out from the weakened muscles or tissues.
- Pain at the site of the bulge
The most common symptom of a hernia is pain, which can range from mild to severe. A hernia can cause increased pain at the site of the bulge. This is because the bulge is pressing on nearby nerves and tissues. The pain may be worse when you cough, sneeze, or strain. If the hernia is large, it may put pressure and cause pain even when you’re at rest.
- Pain while lifting
Hernias can be painful, especially when lifting something heavy. The pain is caused by the extra pressure on the tissues and muscles surrounding the hernia. If you have a hernia, you might feel a sharp pain when lifting something heavy or even just coughing or sneezing.
- Increase in the bulge size over time
In hernia – an organ, tissue, or other structure protrudes through a weakened area of muscle. The bulge created by the hernia can vary in size and may increase over time. A hernia bulge may continue to increase in size and can become more severe if not treated.
- Heartburn
Heartburn is a common symptom of hernia. Hernia occurs when the stomach contents or parts bulges through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. This can cause severe heartburn. Heartburn is caused by regurgitation of stomach acid that flows back up into the esophagus. This usually happens when the esophageal sphincter, which normally prevents stomach contents from flowing back up, is weakened or relaxed.
