Types of Hernias and Their Symptoms: What You Should Know

A hernia occurs when tissue or part of an organ pushes through a weak spot in surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Hernias are fairly common, and while not always dangerous, they can cause discomfort and may require surgery if they become severe or strangulated.

There are several different types of hernias, often categorized by their location or cause. Understanding which type you may have—and what symptoms to look out for—can help you seek the right treatment at the right time.

Most Common Types of Hernias

Inguinal Hernia (Groin Area)

Inguinal hernias are the most common type, accounting for about 75% of all hernia cases. They occur when part of the small intestine pushes through the inguinal canal in the lower abdomen near the groin.

Common symptoms:

• A bulge or lump in the groin or scrotum
• Pain or discomfort, especially when bending, coughing, or lifting
• A heavy or dragging sensation in the groin
• Swelling that may disappear when lying down

Inguinal hernias are more common in men but can occur in women and children as well.

Hiatal Hernia (Upper Stomach)

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Unlike inguinal hernias, there is no visible bulge, but symptoms are often related to digestion.

Common symptoms:

• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Trouble swallowing
• A sour taste in the mouth
• Feeling full quickly after eating

Hiatal hernias are more common in adults over 50 and pregnant individuals.

Umbilical Hernia (Belly Button)

Umbilical hernias occur when tissue bulges through the abdominal wall near the belly button. They are most commonly seen in infants but can also affect adults.

Common symptoms:

• A bulge near the belly button that may be more noticeable when crying or coughing
• Tenderness or swelling around the navel
• Discomfort when lifting or straining

Femoral Hernia (Outer Groin/Thigh)

Femoral hernias occur just below the inguinal ligament and are more common in women, especially older adults.

Common symptoms:

• A lump or bulge near the upper thigh or groin
• Pain when walking or bending
• Possible nausea or vomiting if strangulated

Femoral hernias are less common but carry a higher risk of complications and may require surgery.

Incisional Hernia (Surgical Scar Site)

Incisional hernias develop through a weakened area in the abdominal wall where a surgical incision hasn’t healed properly.

Common symptoms:

• A bulge near or around a past surgical site
• Pain or pressure in the area
• Swelling that may increase over time

These are more common in people who have had multiple abdominal surgeries or poor wound healing.

General Hernia Symptoms to Watch For

While symptoms vary based on type, many hernias share common warning signs:

• A visible bulge that becomes more noticeable when standing or straining
• Pain or pressure at the hernia site
• A feeling of heaviness or weakness in the abdomen
• Digestive symptoms like bloating, acid reflux, or difficulty swallowing (especially for hiatal hernias)
• Sudden pain, discoloration, or vomiting, which may signal a medical emergency

If a hernia becomes strangulated (cutting off blood flow), it requires urgent surgery. Seek immediate care if you experience sharp pain, fever, or vomiting.

What Causes a Hernia?

Hernias can be caused by increased pressure in the abdomen or weakened muscles, including:

• Heavy lifting
• Chronic coughing or sneezing
• Straining during bowel movements
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Previous surgeries or injuries

Poor nutrition, smoking, and aging can also contribute to weakened muscle walls.

When to Seek Treatment

Some hernias may be monitored by a doctor if they’re small and not causing symptoms. However, most hernias do not go away on their own—and may require surgical repair to prevent complications.

If you notice a lump, experience ongoing pain, or have any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to get evaluated.

Get Hernia Care at BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, we provide expert evaluation and treatment for all types of hernias. Our board-certified surgeons and primary care providers will assess your symptoms and develop a personalized plan, whether that involves monitoring or surgery.

Schedule Your Consultation

Don’t ignore the signs of a hernia. Contact BASS Medical Group to schedule an appointment and get the care you need.