Hard Lumps in the Lower Abdomen: Causes and Concerns

There is a hard mass in the lower abdomen?

I usually notice that my lower abdomen is particularly protruding when I stand (but I am not overweight; I am relatively slim at 163 cm and 47 kg).
However, when I assume a push-up position, that part of my belly seems to drop down, as if there is something inside.
When lying down, I can feel something hard in my abdomen, and when I press or push it (it doesn't hurt), I find that it can move around, mostly around my navel.
Is this normal fat? Or could it be impacted stool (since I have severe constipation and only have bowel movements with medication)? However, even after bowel movements, my belly doesn't seem to reduce in size.
Could it possibly be a tumor...?

Jia Jia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/08

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, you can ask a physician to perform a visual or physical examination to differentiate between adipose tissue, lipomas, or fecal matter (which can be felt in thin individuals).
You may consult a family medicine physician, a general internist, or a gastroenterologist at the Ministry of Health and Welfare Taoyuan Hospital, Gastroenterology Department, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui.

Reply Date: 2015/11/08

More Info

When it comes to understanding hard lumps in the lower abdomen, there are several potential causes and concerns that should be considered. Based on your description, it sounds like you have noticed a protrusion in your lower abdomen that changes with different positions, and you can feel a hard mass that is movable and not painful. This can be indicative of a few different things, and it's important to approach this with a thorough understanding of possible causes.

1. Fatty Tissue or Lipomas: One possibility is that the hard lump you are feeling is a lipoma, which is a benign tumor made of fatty tissue. Lipomas are typically soft, movable, and painless. They can occur anywhere in the body, including the abdomen, and are generally harmless. Given your relatively low body weight, it is less likely that this is simply excess fat, but it could still be a benign growth.

2. Hernias: Another common cause of a lump in the abdomen is a hernia. A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This can create a noticeable bulge, especially when standing or straining. If the lump is reducible (meaning it can be pushed back in), it may be an inguinal or umbilical hernia. Hernias can sometimes be asymptomatic but may require surgical intervention if they become incarcerated or strangulated.

3. Bowel Issues: Given your history of severe constipation, it is also possible that the lump could be related to fecal impaction or a buildup of stool in the intestines. This can create a firm mass in the abdomen that may feel movable. However, if you have had a bowel movement and the lump remains, it may not solely be due to constipation.

4. Ovarian Cysts or Other Gynecological Issues: In females, ovarian cysts can sometimes present as palpable masses in the lower abdomen. These cysts can vary in size and may cause discomfort or pressure, but many are benign and resolve on their own. If you have any associated symptoms such as irregular periods, pain, or changes in urinary habits, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

5. Tumors: While less common, it is important to consider the possibility of tumors, both benign and malignant. If the lump is hard, fixed, and associated with other symptoms such as weight loss, changes in appetite, or persistent pain, further evaluation would be necessary.

6. Other Considerations: Other potential causes could include enlarged lymph nodes, which can occur due to infections or other systemic conditions, or even conditions like diverticulitis, which can cause localized tenderness and swelling.

Given your concerns, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to better understand the nature of the lump. They may also inquire about your bowel habits, menstrual history, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing.

In summary, while the lump you are feeling could be benign, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions. Early diagnosis and management are key to addressing any underlying issues effectively.

Similar Q&A

Hard Lump in Lower Left Abdomen: Possible Causes and Solutions

Hello, doctor. I've been experiencing constipation lately. I just had my third hemorrhoid ligation last week, and I've noticed that my stools have been pellet-like rather than elongated, though they are not very hard and pass relatively smoothly. After using the restroo...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please observe the hard lump in your lower left abdomen and see if it improves after a bowel movement. If there is no improvement after the bowel movement, you may consult a gynecologist or a colorectal surgeon, or a gastroenterologist for further examination. Changhua Hos...

Understanding Abdominal Lumps: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello doctor, a few days ago I was fine, but today when I woke up, I noticed a small hard lump about 2 centimeters below my navel. It is a bit red and painful when I press on it. What could this be? I'm a bit worried it might be a tumor, as this is the first time I've h...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to determine the issue. If it is very concerning, please seek medical attention as soon as possible. Only after an examination can the problem be identified and addressed.

Understanding Abdominal Hard Lumps: Potential Causes and Concerns

Hello doctor, in the past month, I have felt a hard lump under my navel, about the size of a soybean, which is immovable. I experienced severe stomach pain in mid-November and mid-December, to the point where walking was difficult. During the hospital visit in mid-November, I und...

Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Miss (unsigned), Regarding your concerns mentioned in your letter, I have not personally seen the patient and can only make judgments based on the limited information provided: 1. You experience frequent severe stomach pain (in November and December) lasting for several ho...

Hard Lump Below Navel: Causes, Symptoms, and Specialist Guidance

There is a hard lump in the lower left quadrant of my abdomen near the navel, which causes mild pain when pressed. I also feel that this lump is affecting my urinary system, as I often feel the urge to urinate again just 10-20 minutes after finishing. When I do go, there is only ...

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following advice: Based on the initial complaints, it appears to be related to the urinary system. You may consult a urologist for evaluation, and if necessary, you can be referred fo...