What are hernias?
A person with a hernia has a piece of intestine that protrudes through an abnormal opening in the muscles of the abdominal wall. The protruding intestine forms a bulge under the skin. Hernias can form in many places inside the body, but the most common areas are the abdomen and groin. In order for a hernia to form, there must be a hole, tear, or weakened area in the layers of tissue that surround an organ. About 75 percent of hernias occur in the groin.

What are the symptoms of hernias?
Symptoms of a hernia depend on the location and severity of the hernia. Abdominal and inguinal hernias may cause groin swelling, tenderness, and abdominal pain. Additional symptoms of a hernia may include nausea, vomiting, and fever.

How does the doctor treat hernias?
In most cases, hernias are treated with surgery. The surgeon places the intestine back into the abdomen and repairs the weakened area in the abdominal wall. An exception is an umbilical hernia in a child, which usually resolves without surgery.