Large Vertical Lump Protrudes From Stomach While Exercising From Sternum To Belly Button. Is It Hernia ?

Posted on Fri, 22 Jun 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 Answered on

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a personal trainer. I discovered that when I am lying on my back and either start to do a sit-up or leg lift, a large vertical lump protrudes from my stomach. It is about 6" long, and starts at the sternum and goes down to the belly button. It is longer then it is wide (2" wide). I am 57 years old, 6'2" tall, 215 lbs, and do have a "beer belly". I believe this to be a hernia, but am not sure. Am I correct? If so, what type? It is fairly spongy, does not hurt, and dieappears when I take the strain off of my abdomen.

Answered by Dr. Rhea Chanda (2 hours later)

Hello,
Yes you may be right.Hernia is a possibility here.The signs are typical of hernia but only an examination can confirm that.The type would depend on the examinations and also upon your history.May be umbilical or incisional hernia if you have had any abdominal surgery.You should see your doctor for a confirmed diagnosis.Surgery will be required in such a case.

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar