Symptoms of HERNIA

Hernias often produce a lump, or bulge, in the affected muscle. Hernias of the abdomen and groin are often made worse with straining, bending and lifting. They may increase in size. In men, the hernia may extend into the scrotum, producing a lump in the scrotum. If a portion of the bowel becomes caught, or incarcerated, in can obstruct the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, constipation and abdominal pain. If the portion of bowel is dead, fever, chills and generalized signs of abdominal infection may develop. Hiatal hernias can produce chest pain and gastrointestinal bleeding. Anemia can develop. If a large part of the bowel or stomach extends into the chest cavity, it can produce shortness or breath and chest pain. There may be difficulty swallowing and painful swallowing.