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A hernia is a condition in which part of an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle of tissue that holds it in place.
They are most common in the abdomen, but can also appear in the belly button, groin, and upper thigh areas.

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The common types of hernias are: inguinal hernia, hiatal hernia, umbilical hernia, and incisional hernia.

Inguinal hernia:

Most common type

Occur when the intestines push through a weak spot or tear in the lower abdominal wall (often in inguinal canal)

Inguinal canal is found in groin and is more common in men than women

Hiatal hernia:

Occurs when part of stomach protrudes up through the diaphragm into chest cavity.

Most common in people over 50 years old

Umbilical hernia:

Occurs in children and babies under 6 months old

Happens when intestines bulge through abdominal wall near belly button

Incisional hernia:

Can occur after abdominal surgery

Intestines may push through incision scar or surrounding, weakened tissue

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The most common hernia symptom is a bulge or lump in the area that is affected. In some cases, there are no symptoms.

Inguinal hernia:

Lump on either side on pubic bone (where groin and thigh meet)

Pain or discomfort in affected area

Weakness, pressure, or a feeling of heaviness in abdomen

Burning, gurling, or aching sensation at site of bulge

Hiatal hernia:

Acid reflux

Chest pain

Difficulty swallowing

Umbilical hernia:

A bulge (can feel when the baby is crying)

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Inguinal and incisional hernias are usually diagnosed through a physical examination. Hiatal hernias are diagnosed by a barium x-ray or endoscopy. Umbilical hernias are found when doctors perform an ultrasound.

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Hernias may simply need monitoring for possible complications. Treatment options include surgery, lifestyle changes, or medication. You may need to make some dietary changes (no large or heavy meals, no lying down or bending over after a meal), although they won't make the hernia away, they will just treat the symptoms. You may also be prescribed medications to relieve discomfort and improve symptoms. If the hernia is growing or causing pain, surgery will be done.

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Hernias don't go away on their own, but they can get better on their own. They can rarely lead to life-threatening complications. Even after surgery, they may come back again BUT it should be less than 2% (10-20% for incisional hernias).