US Medical Term · conditions
Hernia
Hernia
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Hernia |
| Spanish (Español) | Hernia |
| Chinese (中文) | 疝氣 |
| Korean (한국어) | 탈장 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Thoát vị |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Hernia |
| Portuguese (Português) | Hérnia |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ไส้เลื่อน |
| Japanese (日本語) | ヘルニア |
What it means
A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Common types include inguinal hernia in the groin, hiatal hernia where the stomach bulges into the chest, umbilical hernia at the belly button, and incisional hernia at a surgical scar. Symptoms often include a visible bulge, pain or discomfort especially when bending or coughing, and a heavy feeling in the abdomen. Small hernias may be watched, but hernias that cause pain or grow larger usually require surgical repair. A strangulated hernia, where blood supply is cut off, is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I noticed a bulge in my groin and was told I have an inguinal hernia.
Noté una protuberancia en la ingle y me dijeron que tengo una hernia inguinal.
Do I need surgery for my hernia or can I manage it without an operation?
¿Necesito cirugía para mi hernia o puedo manejarla sin operación?
What are the signs that my hernia has become an emergency?
¿Cuáles son las señales de que mi hernia se ha convertido en una emergencia?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
K40 Inguinal herniaRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026