A hernia is a weakness in the muscle of the abdomen. Often the intestines or internal fat will protrude into the hernia. They mainly occur in the groin, the belly button, or along a previous surgical incisions. The can also occur in random parts of the abdominal wall or even in the diaphragm. Often patients will notice a bulge or pain at this site of a hernia. Hernias can be dangerous when they squeeze or strangle the intestine or fat resulting in emergency surgery and serious complications.