Ascension Via Christi Hernia Center

Different types of hernias can present in different ways. The most common finding is a bulge and this bulge can, but not always, get bigger with increases in abdominal pressure, such as when you are trying to lift something heavy. Often, there is no pain associated with the bulge.

A bulge in the area of a previous incision is especially suspicious for a hernia.

Other more serious symptoms include pain that will not go away, skin discoloration over the bulge, abdominal bloating, nausea, vomiting, or the inability to pass gas or stool. If these symptoms are noted in the presence of worsening pain around a known hernia, a physician should become involved immediately.