What are the signs of a hernia if I notice an abdominal lump?

When you see a lump in your abdomen, it might be a hernia. A hernia happens when an internal part of your body pushes through a weak spot in the muscles. Common signs include a bulge that might become more obvious when you stand up, cough, or strain. The area around the lump can feel sore, tender, or heavy. In some cases, the pain may get worse with physical activity or lifting. The lump may change in size, sometimes disappearing when you lie down. In some hernias, the skin over the lump might become red or warm, which can be a sign of inflammation or that the hernia is getting trapped (strangulated). Internal hernias can be trickier to spot because they may not cause a visible bulge but can produce vague abdominal pain or discomfort. If you notice these symptoms or if the lump suddenly becomes more painful or is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, it's important to get evaluated by a healthcare provider. You can start by using a free AI symptom checker to help assess your symptoms, then follow up with a physical exam and possibly imaging tests to determine if it is a hernia and decide on the best treatment.