Wellness Articles. Hernias are relatively common and can affect anyone. But how do you know if you have one? Hernias can be caused by a variety of circumstances. You might get one because of muscle weakness, straining from heavy lifting or a previous injury.
When you get a hernia, an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through the wall of the cavity in which it is contained, typically in the abdomen. During your exam, your doctor will typically feel around your groin and testicles , and ask you to cough. This is done because standing and coughing or straining usually make a hernia more prominent. Men might have an ultrasound to assess for inguinal or scrotal hernias. This test uses sound waves to create images of your abdomen and pelvic organs.
Computer Tomography CT Scan Your doctor may order this test to rule out other conditions that can cause abdominal pain and swelling. CT scans use X-rays to create images of your abdomen and its organs, and they may involve having a contrast dye injected into your arm.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI Your doctor may order this test if your pain gets worse when you exercise, since physical activity can initially cause a hernia with no bulge in some people.
An MRI scan can detect a tear in your abdominal muscles even when no bulge is present. This test uses radio waves and a magnetic field to create images of your abdomen and its organs, and it may also involve having a contrast dye injected into your arm. If your doctor believes that your hernia may have developed a complication — such as becoming trapped or having its blood supply cut off — then you may undergo imaging tests as well as blood tests to look for signs of infection.
By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. Reviewed: April 20, Medically Reviewed. There are several types of hernias, each of which is associated with its own set of symptoms.
Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Other types of hernias include hiatal, where part of the stomach moves up into the chest through a small opening in the diaphragm; umbilical, which occurs around the belly button; and congenital diaphragmatic, which is a rare birth defect that frequently requires surgery.
Anyone can develop a hernia. If any of the following symptoms sound familiar, it might be a good idea to be evaluated for a hernia.
The first sign of a hernia is the hernia itself — that is, the bulge created by the tissue or organ. You might not even notice it, until you do something that increases the pressure within your abdomen, such as coughing, jumping, standing up or straining.
Bulges are typically associated with mild discomfort that can be exacerbated by coughing, straining or strenuous physical activity, according to Bildzukewicz. A hernia can progress to the point of strangulation, meaning the section of the organ or tissue protruding through the hole gets stuck, and its blood supply is cut off.
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