Inguinal Hernia is a common condition where the contents of the abdomen like intestines or fat, bulge through a weak area in the lower abdominal wall into the groin area. This condition is not life-threatening but it may cause pain while lifting, bending, straining with a bowel movement, or coughing. Some of the symptoms that may suggest that you have Inguinal Hernia are:
- A bulge in the groin area that disappears while lying down
- Pain when coughing, exercising, or bending over
- Weakness, heaviness or burning sensation
- Swollen scrotum in men
Weak areas in the abdominal and groin muscles are responsible for hernias to occur. When extra pressure falls on this part of the body, it can eventually cause hernia. The following factors increases your chance to develop this condition:
- If the condition runs in the family
- Having a previous episode of inguinal hernia
- Men are at more risk than women
- If your birth is premature
- Being obese
- Pregnancy
- Having cystic fibrosis, chronic cough or constipation
Inguinal hernias that increase in size, cause symptoms, or become incarcerated must be treated immediately. In infants and children, inguinal hernias should be treated as soon as it is detected to prevent incarceration. Surgery is the primary treatment for this condition and there are several options of open and laparoscopic surgeries are available now. Inguinal hernias can be treated successfully with quick recovery when done by an expert gastro surgeon.
