Got a head up from Adrianí ½í±.
To answer all your questions would require confirming that you actually have a hernia indeed in the first instance. Most times the diagnosis is obvious on clinical examination. Sometimes you may need an ultrasound or radiologic modalities.
Treatment is often elective(planned) but if you develope a complication like strangulation then you will require emergency surgery.
Typically for an inguinal hernia the gold standard repair is the Lichtenstein technique (mesh overlay repair) and it's usually a daycase procedure. Endoscopic (keyhole) repair is also possible but usually employed for a simple inguinal hernia.
So if all you have is a lump in the groin which comes up when you strain, stand etc and that reduces easily when you apply gently pressure to it, lie down or wear even a corset. Typically you may experience a heaviness, dragging sensation or mild discomfort when it's popped out but this goes away when back in.
If the lump becomes very painful, red/hot, unable to reduce, or you start to vomit or experience a distending tummy then these may suggest a serious complication requiring emergency surgery.
You can reduce the chance of the hernia symptoms worsening or complicating by avoiding strainous activities, avoid constipation, treating persistent cough etc.
I'm quite happy for you to contact me by pm or phone so we can discuss things of a more personal nature and I can try to advice appropriately.
That's what I said Bennet