The following are common symptoms of a hernia:
1) An aching sensation on the abdomen or the groin that is more apparent when you are active, bending over or lifting things.
2) An obvious swelling beneath the skin of the abdomen or groin that is visible while standing up. Most of the time the bulge can be pushed in, or it goes back on its own when you lie down.
If the hernia becomes extremely painful and hard then it may be incarcerated or trapped. This means that the fat or loop of intestine is now stuck in the hernia and is in danger of becoming gangrenous. This is referred to as strangulation. If you suspect that your hernia maybe incarcerated or trapped, then you should seek medical help immediately.