Lump In The Abdomen: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Lump In The Abdomen?
A primary care doctor usually checks a lump in the abdomen first. Depending on the cause, you may be sent to a gastroenterologist (a digestive system doctor) or a general surgeon (a surgeon who treats belly problems). A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is a lump in the abdomen?
An abdominal mass is swelling in one part of the belly area, called the abdomen. It is often found during a routine physical exam. Most of the time, the mass develops slowly. You may not be able to feel the mass.
The location of the mass, and how firm it is, can give clues to the cause.
Symptoms
Doctors describe where a mass is by dividing the belly into four areas:
- Right upper area.
- Left upper area.
- Right lower area.
- Left lower area.
If the lump is a hernia, the lump may get bigger when you cough, sneeze, or cry, and get smaller when you lie down. The skin over the lump may seem tight and stretched.
Causes and who gets it
Several conditions can cause an abdominal mass. Examples include:
- A hernia, where part of an internal organ, such as the bowel, pushes through a gap or weak area in the muscle.
- An abdominal aortic aneurysm, which can cause a pulsating mass around the navel.
- Diverticulitis, which can cause a mass that is usually in the left lower area.
- Crohn disease or bowel obstruction, which can cause many tender, sausage-shaped masses.
- An ovarian cyst, which can cause a smooth, rounded, rubbery mass in the lower belly.
- Fibroids, which can cause a round, lumpy mass in the lower belly.
- Pregnancy, which causes a mass in the lower belly.
- Colon cancer, which can cause a mass almost anywhere in the abdomen.
- Liver cancer, which can cause a firm, lumpy mass in the right upper area.
Most hernias develop in the tummy or groin.
How doctors diagnose it
Your provider will do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and medical history. Questions may include where the mass is, when you noticed it, and whether it comes and goes.
Tests that may be done to find the cause include a CT scan, which makes detailed pictures, and an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to make pictures. Blood tests may also be done.
Treatment
Changing your body position may help relieve pain due to an abdominal mass.
For a hernia, some improve on their own but others may need surgery.
When to see a doctor
All abdominal masses should be examined as soon as possible by the provider. Contact your provider if you notice any type of abdominal mass.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if you have a pulsating lump in your abdomen along with severe abdominal pain. This could be a sign of a ruptured aortic aneurysm, which is an emergency condition.
If you have a hernia, also call 911 or go to the emergency room right away for pain in or around the hernia, a bloated belly, feeling sick or vomiting, vomiting blood, constipation, a high temperature, or sudden confusion. These can be signs of strangulation, when the muscle tightens around your internal organs.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care doctor can examine the lump, order first tests such as imaging or blood work, and refer you to the right specialist.
Common questions
Should I get a lump in the abdomen checked?
Yes. All abdominal masses should be examined as soon as possible by the provider.
Can a hernia cause a lump in the abdomen?
Yes, it can. Most hernias develop in the tummy or groin, and some cause a lump under your skin.
What does a pulsating lump in the abdomen mean?
It can mean an abdominal aortic aneurysm. With severe belly pain, it could be a ruptured aortic aneurysm, which is an emergency.
How is a lump in the abdomen found?
It is often found during a routine physical exam. Tests may include a CT scan or an ultrasound.
Can a lump in the abdomen be a sign of cancer?
Sometimes. Colon cancer can cause a mass almost anywhere in the abdomen. Liver cancer can cause a firm, lumpy mass in the right upper area.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
