Symptoms of Hernias

The first sign of a hernia is often a bulge or swelling in the groin, thigh or navel, depending on the type of hernia. If brought on by acute straining, such as a coughing fit, patients may feel the hernia descend; however, if they lie down the hernia may temporarily disappear.

Although a hernia may not be painful, it may ache or 'drag', causing some discomfort, particularly as it stretches as becomes bigger. The real danger is if the hernia becomes strangulated - where it becomes twisted, swollen or caught by a constricted muscle ring. This will interrupt the blood flow to the intestine, which may lead to necrosis and gangrene. The intestine may also become blocked, so that the bowel contents can no longer pass the obstruction, resulting in cramps, vomiting and the inability to defecate. A strangulated hernia is very painful and tender to the touch and immediate surgical action should be taken to relieve the strangulation.