See a healthcare professional for a physical examination
Describe any bulge, pain, pressure, or discomfort
Report when symptoms appear and what makes them worse
Mention any history of heavy lifting, coughing, constipation, or surgery
The clinician may ask you to stand, cough, or strain during the exam
The clinician may feel for a bulge or weakness in the abdominal or groin area
Imaging tests may be ordered if the diagnosis is unclear
Ultrasound may be used to check for a hernia
CT scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis or assess complications
MRI may be used in some cases
Seek urgent care if there is severe pain, a hard bulge, redness, vomiting, or inability to pass stool or gas