Asymtomatic Hernia
A hernia may cause no symptoms what so ever. They may be found by incidental physical examination or by CT or ultrasound scans. However most hernia as they get bigger cause discomfort and can be felt as a lump or even seen.
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Nerve Pain
Pain & Discomfort
Vague pain or discomfort is common with groin hernia. Post operative or ventral hernia produce a visible bulge, usually more obvious when coughin or standing. These are usually uncomfortable but many patients can manage without surgery.
Inguinal or groin hernia put pressure on small nerves that go to the groin and testes. Many men notice pain or discomfort that radiates into the groin. This can happen with early small hernia and is often the first symptom
The Onset of Hernia
The onset can be very gradual, perhaps an ache or discomfort with nothing else noticeable. With time it may become worse and a bulge develop over the hernia. The bulge becomes more noticeable with time.
Occasionally a hernia can be felt suddenly as the tissue 'bursts' due to pressure. You may have noticed your hernia occurring as a sudden pain or tearing when doing heavy work and perhaps noticed the sudden appearance of a bulge or lump.
A hernia is easy to see on a stickman
Inguinal Hernia
Surprisingly an uncomplicated small inguinal hernia can be very uncomfortable due to nerves being squashed. This is often worse in some positions such as sitting or driving. Lifting or heavy work will aggrevate the symptoms. Inguinal or groin hernia put presure on small nerves that go to the groin and testes. So many men notice pain that radiates into the testes.
Incisional or post op Hernia
A post operative or ventral hernia is usually noticeable as a swelling in the abdomen - under a scar from previous surgery. It will be more obvious with standing or coughing which raises the intra abdominal pressure.
What is a reducible hernia ?
This simply means that the contents of the hernia can be pushed back into the abdomen. Reducing the contents often makes the hernia more comfortable. It is why a Trus pressing from the outside, preventing things bulging out, is helpful.
Will a hernia affect me playing sport ?
The abdominal muscles are a complex of opposing layers that work in a concerted way together. There are 3 layers of flat muscles that combine with tendons in a rather beautiful way. They have a supportive role for the spine and are important in lifting, bending and twisting. The long rectus muscles at the front are visible as a ''6 pack' in fit individuals. A hole or defect in the muscle or tendon will alter the way the abdominal muscles work.
Large incisional hernia due to a hole in the abdominal wall can alter muscle dynamics, affect movement and be particularly noticeable during work outs or sport.
Complicated Hernia
If a hernia becomes incarcerated it remains bulging and can not be reduced. This is usually pretty uncomfortable.
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If a hernia causes a bowel obstruction or becomes strangulated the bulge can not be reduced. This is very painful and often surrounded by redness of the skin. You should get prompt medical advice.
Pain & discomfort mistaken for a hernia. The 'sports hernia'
Groin pain is common in athletic sports and easily mistaken for a hernia. Several big muscles attach to the pelvis in the groin area. These can tear or pull off the pelvic bones producing a similar type of pain. The long leg 'adductor' muscle is a frequent culprit. In addition groin pain can be due to the pelvis, the spine or even the hips.
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A good history and physical examination usually point to the diagnosis. But this can be confusing.
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An ultrasound and MRI can help sort out the diagnosis. ​Effusion, synovitis, and labral abnormalities can be seen in the hip joint and the muscles and tendons attaching to the pelvis can be evaluated for tendinosis and tears.
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Surgical repair of a 'non existent' hernia is not needed and is not a good idea.