Question:
How do you know if you have a hernia

I feel a round ball at the center of my stomach; not pouch stomach. About 4 inches below my breast bone. How do I know if its a hernia or not. ITs round. What are the symptoms? thanks    — babyboomer13 (posted on October 17, 2005)

October 17, 2005
A good way to tell if it is a hernia is... when you lift, or cough or sneeze, it hurts or you have to hold yourself because it hurts, you can push it in or it goes flat or sunkin when you lay down. If you think this may be a hernia, see your surgeon asap because you dont want the intestine to get strangled or the hernia to grow any larger. Rosemary
   — wizz40

October 17, 2005
Nancy, my hernia was about there. It was about the size of an orange and got bigger, but I had no pain. I also got pregnant and had no problems. My doctor said as large as it was there was less of a chance for a strangulation. However if you have any severe pain, see the doctor immediately. My hernia weas fixed durong my TT, all paid by my insurance:) Best wishes, Phyllis
   — PhyllisM

October 17, 2005
the best way to know if it is a hernia is to see your doctor. A hernia can be a serious medical problem, and only a dr who has examined you can diagnose you.
   — **willow**