Abdominal & gallbladder
Hernia
A lump in the groin or abdomen that appears when standing, coughing or straining may be a hernia.
Seek emergency care immediately if
- The lump becomes suddenly very painful, tender or no longer goes back in.
- Vomiting or abdominal bloating.
- Skin colour change over the hernia.
A hernia occurs when tissue or part of the bowel pushes through a weak area in the abdominal wall. Hernias may occur in the groin, at the navel or through a previous surgical scar.
When should you be assessed?
- A lump in the groin, navel or abdominal wall
- A feeling of heaviness or discomfort
- Pain when coughing, straining or lifting
- Swelling that becomes more noticeable when standing
How is it assessed?
- Clinical examination
- Ultrasound or CT scan in selected cases
- Pre-operative health assessment if surgery is required
Treatment Options
Surgery is the definitive treatment for a hernia, but not every hernia requires immediate surgery. The need and timing of repair depend on the type of hernia, symptoms, risk of complications and your overall health. Some hernias can be monitored after assessment and discussion with your surgeon. Repair may be recommended if the hernia is painful, increasing in size, affecting daily activities or at risk of complications. Surgery may be performed laparoscopically or through an open approach, depending on the type and size of the hernia, previous surgery and your overall health.
Related care
All treatments-
Abdominal & gallbladder
Gallstones
Right upper abdominal pain, especially after meals.
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Skin & soft tissue
Lumps & Bumps
Any new, enlarging or changing lump should be assessed.
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Endoscopy
OGDS / Gastroscopy
Camera examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
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Colorectal & perianal
Colorectal Cancer
Blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits and screening.