Symptoms and Signs

Initially, most hernias cause no symptoms. The symptoms and signs of hernias are variable. Commonly a painful bulge or mass is detected in the groin or area of the hernias, especially after lifting heavy objects or straining. Brisk coughing, straining at bowel movements or with urination can cause hernias. Typically, sudden twists, pulls and strains, marked weight gain, chronic constipation, smoker's cough, bowel tumors, and an enlarged prostate gland can cause hernias. On the other hand, some hernias are without symptoms and require expert examination to find them. Children's hernias are routinely congenital (born with them).

Some advanced symptoms and signs of hernias include nausea, vomiting unexplained fever, unexplained constipation, chills, and the inability to push the hernia bulge back into your body.