Hernias don’t go away on their own. Only surgery can repair a hernia. Many people are able to delay surgery for months or even years. And some people may never need surgery for a small hernia.

How can you tell the difference between a hernia and a hydrocele?

What is a hydrocele and hernia? A hydrocele occurs when fluid collects in the scrotum and causes it to swell. This may or may not be accompanied by a hernia. A hernia is present when bowel or membranes, known as omentum, push through the abdominal wall either into or above the scrotum.

Can a hernia go undetected?

Unlike other types of hernias, which develop immediately below layers of fat, spigelian hernias occur in the midst of abdominal muscles. This means that spigelian hernias may not be immediately visible as a bulge or lump. They can go undetected for longer periods of time.