My friend has had hernia mesh surgery years ago what symptoms would there be if the mesh tore she has had a lot of pain her stool is a carmel color?

Maybe recurrence: May have a recurrent hernia if the mesh tore, and that could cause pain. Could also have pain or discomfort from he mesh, but difficult to distinguish from other causes of pain. Shouldn't have anything to do with the stool, which sounds like it is normal. As always, check with the surgeon that fixed the hernia to find out more or get a follow up exam. Hope this helps!

Bulge and discomfort: A recurrence of the hernia would result in some discomfort and possibly a bulge. It would not result in any change in your stool color. You should see your surgeon and he may be able to diagnose recurrence based on physical exam.