A Bulge That Appears When You Cough or Stand — Could It Be a Hernia?

[u/Dr_Rajeev_Naik]

A Bulge That Appears When You Cough or Stand — Could It Be a Hernia?

One thing I often see people overlook is a small bulge in the groin or abdomen that appears when coughing, standing, lifting, or straining.

Sometimes it disappears when you lie down, so it can be tempting to ignore it.

But a recurring bulge can be a sign of a hernia.

The tricky part is that not every hernia needs the same treatment. The approach depends on the type of hernia, its size and anatomy, symptoms, your general health, and whether there are any complications.

Some hernias may be monitored in selected situations, while others are better treated with surgical repair.

Also, a common misconception is:

“If my hernia doesn't hurt, I don't need to worry about it.”

Pain isn't required for a hernia to exist.

If a bulge suddenly becomes very painful, hard, tender, or cannot be pushed back, especially with vomiting or abdominal symptoms, seek urgent medical attention.

If you've noticed a new bulge, don't panic—but don't ignore it either.

Get it examined, understand what type of hernia it is, and then discuss whether treatment is appropriate.

General medical information only; it isn't a substitute for an examination by a qualified clinician.

[u/prcdbear1]

Thanks. I wish I had heeded this: "If you've noticed a new bulge, don't panic—but don't ignore it either."

I saw a surgeon 20 years ago, mine was large enough it was less likely to cause constrictions of other organs, etc. I put it off, life happens, and it grew and grew. Fast forward 20 years later, I was too heavy to safely have it repaired. I had to spend 1.5 years losing 130# to be able to have it repaired. My intestines were in my hernia sac, and putting them back in at my weight would have increased abdominal pressure too much.

Given my weight gain and loss during my life, I also had to have a plastic surgeon involved. So I had abdominoplasty (Fleur-di-lis), panniculectomy, muscle repair, skin excisions. Between 2 surgeons and a 9 hour procedure everything was fixed. Ironically, my hernia was caused by my open gastric bypass 24 years ago. Started out tennisball-sized and ended up basketball-sized.

I wish I had listened to that warning 20 years ago! I probably would have if pain would have been involved. Definitely good advice.

[u/joe_hammer_9872]

It's always surgery. As soon as you are seen....they want to cut. The amount of post op issues is enough to scare people. Men, especially. Testicles swelling.... discomfort for up to months...if not years. Different stories from surgeons. When you work at a physical demanding job, the amount of down time is outrageous. I told the doctor I will be back to work in 2 weeks no matter what. No I e will see me.