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Hernia

Also called: Hernia, inguinal hernia, umbilical hernia, incisional hernia, hiatal hernia

A bulge where tissue or part of an organ pushes through a weak spot in a muscle wall, most often in the groin or belly button. Many need surgery, and a stuck hernia is an emergency.

Most commonGroin (inguinal), mostly in men
Danger signPainful bulge that won't go back in
TreatmentWatching or surgery

Overview

Hernias often show more when you stand, cough, or lift, and shrink when lying down.

A hiatal hernia is the stomach pushing up into the chest and often causes heartburn instead of a bulge.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Bulge in the groin or belly

Less common

  • Ache or heaviness, worse with lifting
  • Heartburn (hiatal hernia)

When to get medical care

Call 911A hernia bulge that is firm, painful, red, or won't go back in, especially with vomiting.
Get care todayNew pain at a hernia.
See a doctor soonAny new bulge.

Causes

Weak muscle walls plus strain from lifting, coughing, or pregnancy.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Men
  • Older age
  • Past belly surgery
  • Overweight

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician feels for the bulge while you stand and cough.

Questions you may be asked

  • Lifting, coughing, past surgery

The exam

A groin or belly exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound or CT: If unclear.

Treatment

Small, painless hernias may be watched.

Self-care

  • Avoid heavy lifting and straining
  • Treat constipation and long coughs
  • Keep a healthy weight

Surgery, often through small cuts, repairs the weak spot.

Prevention

To lower risk:

  • Lift with your legs

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a general surgeon.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Babies: Belly-button hernias often close on their own by age 4 or 5.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Surgery works well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Do I need surgery now?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Hernia

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.