An abdominal hernia is a bulge or swelling. It happens when some of the contents inside your abdomen (tummy), such as fat or bowel, push through a weakness in your abdominal wall.
You may have no symptoms from your hernia, or you may notice pain or a bulge appearing. This can happen especially when you cough or strain and it may disappear when you lie down.
You may need an operation, although not everyone who has an abdominal hernia needs to have surgery. This may depend upon your symptoms and your risk of getting complications.
Seek urgent medical help if your hernia suddenly becomes painful or tender, especially if you can’t push it back in. This may mean that some of the hernia contents have become trapped inside. You’ll need surgical treatment as soon as possible.