Question:
How does a hernia feel?

Can anyone tell me what a hernia feels like? I have no bulge or real pain, just a pulling feeling near my belly button by the end of the day. I only notice it when standing. How do they confirm it? By ex-ray? Anyone know?    — JAN C. (posted on September 19, 1999)

September 19, 1999
I just had my 3 month check up ang my surgeon was able to just feel with his hand, mine is pretty major and it feels like a lot of pulling and feels like my guts are trying to fall out. Sometimes it's really painful, like a cramping feeling. He says we're going to have to do repair surgery in the spring when I've lost more weight.
   — Angel G.

September 19, 1999
Your surgeon should be able to tell by examination, just feeling around. Get to your Doctor and tell them that you suspect that you have a hernia.
   — Mary Anne M.

September 19, 1999
I am 3 wks post op. At about 10 days post op I had a burning pain between my belly button and the incision from open RNY. The only time it hurt was when I stood up. So I held my hand there. And that Kept the pain ok till I saw the DR. for 2 wk checkup. By that time the pain had started to subside. The Dr. said he put a knot at the bottom of the incision and that was what hurt. It went away on its own. I was going to ask that question but instead waited to go to the Dr. So if you have just had surgery ask your Dr. about this. Hope things work out. Carol Taylor
   — Carol T.

September 19, 1999
A hernia feels like a bulge, often with minimal discomfort. It is diagnosed by physical exam by a surgeon.
   — Bruce B.