The diagnosis of inguinal hernia is usually based on your medical history and a physical exam. Tests such as ultrasound and CT scans are not usually needed to diagnose an inguinal hernia. In most cases, a doctor can identify an inguinal hernia during a physical exam.

An examination of urine (urinalysis) may be done to rule out a urinary tract infection. A urinary tract infection or kidney stone may cause pain in the groin that can be mistaken for hernia pain. Further tests may be done to rule out other conditions that could be contributing to the hernia, such as colon or prostate cancer or lung diseases that cause chronic coughing.

If surgery is planned, other tests may be needed to evaluate the status of any current health problems, such as lung, heart, or bleeding problems.