Home / Conditions & Treatments / Hernias

Hernias

Older man grabbing his lower belly with a shipping box in front to show that he was trying to lift it & ended up with a hernia.

Hernias occur when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Common types include inguinal hernias (groin), umbilical hernias (belly button), and hiatal hernias (upper stomach through the diaphragm). While some hernias are painless, others can cause discomfort and may worsen over time without treatment.

  • Visible bulge or lump, especially when standing or straining
  • Pain or discomfort in the abdomen or groin
  • Heaviness or pressure sensation
  • Acid reflux or heartburn (hiatal hernia)
  • Nausea or vomiting in severe cases
  • Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, avoiding strain, managing acid reflux
  • Support garments: Temporary symptom relief
  • Minimally invasive surgery: Laparoscopic or robotic hernia repair
  • Open surgery: Often used for large or complicated hernias

Surgery is the only definitive way to repair a hernia. Untreated hernias may lead to complications like strangulation or obstruction.

  • Weakness in the abdominal wall (congenital or age-related)
  • Heavy lifting or straining
  • Chronic coughing or constipation
  • Obesity or pregnancy
  • Prior surgeries weakening the abdominal muscles

Healthcare Providers

Symptoms

  • Visible bulge or lump, especially when standing or straining
  • Pain or discomfort in the abdomen or groin
  • Heaviness or pressure sensation
  • Acid reflux or heartburn (hiatal hernia)
  • Nausea or vomiting in severe cases

Causes

  • Weakness in the abdominal wall (congenital or age-related)
  • Heavy lifting or straining
  • Chronic coughing or constipation
  • Obesity or pregnancy
  • Prior surgeries weakening the abdominal muscles

Treatments

  • Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, avoiding strain, managing acid reflux
  • Support garments: Temporary symptom relief
  • Minimally invasive surgery: Laparoscopic or robotic hernia repair
  • Open surgery: Often used for large or complicated hernias

Surgery is the only definitive way to repair a hernia. Untreated hernias may lead to complications like strangulation or obstruction.

Specialties That Treat This Condition

Related Conditions

No items found.
The BASS Doctors

Not sure where to start?

Request an appointment today and get a personalized treatment plan from our trusted BASS specialists.
Contact Us Today!