This topic is about experiencing pain near a stoma after gardening and wondering if it might be a sign of a hernia. The person who shared their experience has had an ileostomy since December 2009 and hasn't had hernia issues before. After a day of gardening, they felt sharp, intermittent pain close to their stoma but didn't notice any bulge or protrusion. They had recently bought a hernia support belt but didn't wear it while gardening. They are curious if most parastomal hernias come with pain or if they might have just strained or pulled something.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Sharp, fleeting pain around the stoma is often just a strain from over-activity. Rest and moderation usually help it settle down.

2. Parastomal hernias typically feel soft or "squishy." Gentle pressure with the palm can sometimes reduce them temporarily.

3. Wearing a properly-fitted hernia support belt during physical tasks can:
- Provide immediate support and comfort if a hernia is starting.
- Help prevent further enlargement.

4. Over-exertion, coughing, sneezing, or sudden movements can cause an existing hernia to enlarge quickly. Early use of a support belt and caution are strongly advised to avoid large, complex hernias that can strain the back, neck, and posture.

5. If a protrusion becomes large (from the size of a golf ball to a football) or painful and cannot be reduced, it's important to seek evaluation by a surgeon experienced in complex parastomal hernia repair.

6. From community experiences:
- Some people successfully reduce small hernias with manual pressure and belt support.
- Others find that once the hernia "pops" substantially, only surgical consultation provides long-term relief.