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Hernia: Symptoms, Types, and the Best Treatment Options Explained by a Surgeon

  • Prof. Dr. Zahid Mahmood
  • July 31, 2026

Do you feel a lump in your abdomen or groin? Hernia consultation with Prof. Dr. Zahid Mahmood, call 0300 4130159

Hernia: Symptoms, Types, and the Best Treatment Options Explained by a Surgeon

By Prof. Dr. Zahid Mahmood — General, Laparoscopic & Laser Surgeon, Lahore

A hernia is one of the most common surgical problems in the world, and one I treat almost every day. If you have noticed a lump in your groin or abdomen — or a swelling that appears when you cough, lift, or strain — you may have a hernia. The good news is that hernias are very treatable, and modern hernia surgery is safe, quick, and highly effective. In this guide I explain what a hernia is, the warning signs to watch for, the different types, and the best treatment options available today, including keyhole (laparoscopic) hernia surgery.

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body — usually a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue — pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or wall that normally holds it in place. The result is a visible or feelable bulge. Think of it like an inner tube pushing through a weak patch in a tyre. These weak areas can be present from birth or can develop over time due to ageing, heavy lifting, chronic cough, constipation, obesity, pregnancy, or a previous surgical incision.

Importantly, a hernia will not heal on its own. It tends to grow slowly larger over time, and the only definitive cure is surgical repair.

Common symptoms of a hernia

Hernia symptoms can be mild at first and easy to ignore. See a doctor if you notice:

  • A lump or bulge in the groin, abdomen, or around the navel that may disappear when you lie down
  • A swelling that appears when you cough, lift, or strain and reduces when you rest
  • A dragging, aching, or heavy sensation in the area
  • Discomfort or pain that worsens with activity or towards the end of the day

Warning: if a hernia suddenly becomes hard, very painful, or cannot be pushed back in — especially with vomiting or an inability to pass stool — this may be a strangulated hernia, a surgical emergency. Go to a hospital immediately, as the trapped tissue can lose its blood supply.

Types of hernia

There are several types of hernia, and knowing which one you have helps decide the right treatment:

  • Inguinal hernia — the most common type, occurring in the groin. It is far more frequent in men and is the classic hernia most people picture.
  • Femoral hernia — also in the groin but lower down, more common in women, and carries a higher risk of strangulation, so it usually needs prompt surgery.
  • Umbilical hernia — at or near the navel, common in babies and in adults who are overweight or have had multiple pregnancies.
  • Incisional hernia — develops through the scar of a previous abdominal operation.
  • Epigastric hernia — a small hernia in the midline between the navel and the chest.
  • Hiatus hernia — where part of the stomach slides up into the chest, often causing acid reflux and heartburn.

How is a hernia diagnosed?

In most cases, a hernia is diagnosed simply by examination. I will ask you to stand and cough so I can feel the characteristic “cough impulse,” and check whether the swelling can be gently pushed back. Occasionally an ultrasound or CT scan is used to confirm the diagnosis or to plan surgery for larger or recurrent hernias.

Hernia treatment: what are the options?

The only reliable cure for a hernia is surgery. There are two main approaches, and I discuss with each patient which is best suited to them.

1. Open hernia repair (mesh repair)

In open surgery, a small cut is made over the hernia, the bulging tissue is returned to its proper place, and the weak area is reinforced with a soft, tension-free mesh. This modern “tension-free” technique (the Lichtenstein repair) has dramatically reduced the chance of the hernia coming back. It can often be done under local or spinal anaesthesia and is a very safe, well-proven operation.

2. Laparoscopic (keyhole) hernia surgery

In laparoscopic hernia surgery, the repair is done through three tiny incisions using a camera and fine instruments, placing the mesh from the inside. As a laparoscopic surgeon, I find keyhole repair offers real advantages for many patients: less post-operative pain, smaller scars, faster recovery, and an earlier return to work. It is especially useful for hernias on both sides and for recurrent hernias.

Both methods are usually performed as a day-case or single overnight stay, meaning most patients go home the same day.

Is watchful waiting ever an option?

For some elderly patients with a small, painless hernia and no risk features, careful monitoring (“watchful waiting”) may be reasonable. However, because a hernia can enlarge or become trapped over time, most people benefit from planned repair before complications develop. This is a decision best made together with your surgeon.

Recovery after hernia surgery

Recovery is usually smooth. Most patients walk on the same day, manage discomfort easily with simple painkillers, and return to light activities within a week or two. Heavy lifting is avoided for about four to six weeks. With modern mesh repair, the long-term success rate is excellent and recurrence is uncommon.

Frequently asked questions about hernia

Can a hernia go away without surgery?

No. In adults, a hernia does not heal by itself and generally grows larger with time. Belts and trusses may control symptoms temporarily but do not cure it.

Is hernia surgery dangerous?

Modern hernia repair is one of the safest and most common operations performed. Serious complications are rare, especially when done early by an experienced surgeon.

How soon can I return to work after hernia surgery?

Many people return to desk work within a week, particularly after keyhole surgery. Those doing heavy physical work may need a few weeks longer.

Which is better — open or laparoscopic hernia repair?

Both are excellent. Laparoscopic surgery often means less pain and quicker recovery, while open mesh repair is superb and can be done under local anaesthesia. The right choice depends on your hernia and your general health.

Consult a hernia surgeon in Lahore

If you think you have a hernia, do not wait for it to become painful or dangerous. Early, planned surgery is simpler, safer, and gives the best results. As a general and laparoscopic surgeon in Lahore, I offer both open and keyhole hernia repair tailored to each patient.

To book a consultation with Prof. Dr. Zahid Mahmood, please call 0300 413 0159.

This article is for general awareness and does not replace a personal medical consultation. Please see a qualified doctor for advice about your own condition.

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