A hernia occurs when internal tissues push out through a weakened area of muscle in your abdominal wall. While some hernias cause sudden, noticeable discomfort, most develop gradually and only show subtle symptoms at first.
But because hernias don’t heal on their own and can worsen over time, knowing the early signs is key to getting proper treatment before complications occur.
Elvira Klause, MD, FACS, and our team in Laguna Hills, California, diagnose and repair hernias using advanced, minimally invasive techniques.
Here are five signs that might mean you have a hernia and why you shouldn’t ignore them.
One of the most common signs of a hernia is a bulge under your skin that you can see or feel. Most hernias develop in your groin or abdomen, so take note of any new or unusual bulges in those areas.
You might notice it more when you stand up or when you do something that causes strain, like coughing, lifting a heavy object, or exercising.
The bulge may disappear or shrink when you lie down. Even if it doesn’t hurt, it still needs evaluation, because a bulge indicates that tissue is slipping through a weakened area. Left untreated, it can lead to complications like incarceration or strangulation, which require emergency surgery.
Hernia pain is often described as a dull, aching sensation or a feeling of pressure, especially after physical activity. Some people notice discomfort when bending, lifting, or even standing for long periods.
Pain that worsens throughout the day or improves when you lie down can be a sign of a hernia. While discomfort varies, you should get any persistent groin or abdominal pain evaluated by a professional.
If you have a dull ache or sensation of pressure that gets worse when you exert yourself, the cause might be a hernia. Activities that increase abdominal pressure like lifting weights, coughing, or straining can push more tissue through the weakened area of muscle.
Sharp, sudden pain during activity is especially concerning and could indicate a worsening hernia. The earlier you address the issue, the easier it is to repair and manage safely.
Some hernias can affect digestion, especially when part of the intestine becomes trapped or irritated. A hernia can cause symptoms like:
If nausea or digestive issues appear alongside a bulge or abdominal pain, you should seek medical care right away. These symptoms in particular can signal that the hernia is interfering with bowel function.
Strangulation happens when the blood supply to the trapped tissue in the hernia is cut off, and it’s a medical emergency that requires immediate surgery. Symptoms may include:
Strangulated hernias require immediate surgery to prevent tissue damage or life-threatening complications. Never wait to get help if you notice these signs.
Whether your symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe, hernias don’t resolve without medical treatment. Dr. Klause specializes in hernia evaluation and repair with minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques to restore abdominal wall strength, relieve symptoms, and prevent future complications.
We also take time to answer common questions, like how hernias form, what activities to avoid, and what recovery looks like, so you can confidently choose the right treatment option. Our goal is to provide care that is both thorough and comfortable, from diagnosis through recovery.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, don’t wait. Scheduling an evaluation is the safest way to confirm what’s happening and prevent a minor issue from becoming a medical emergency. Call us at 949-245-6910 today or use our online system to request an appointment.
