Definition:
Inguinal hernias happen when the soft tissue sticks out through a fragile point or cut in the lower abdominal wall which can be painful when coughing, bending or lifting heavy objects.
Diagnosis:
The most usual way to diagnose is to perform a physical examination. The doctor will ask about signs and symptoms to check for a bulge in the groin area.
Treatment:
If the case is not severe a watch-and-wait approach is recommended by the doctor. Hernia operations are performed in severe cases such as herniorrhaphy and hernioplasty.
Symptoms and Signs:
Bulge is obvious when standing straight or coughing
Groin pain especially when bending or coughing
Dragging or heavy feeling in the groin
Inflammation and pain in the scrotum around the testicles if the intestine that is protruding goes down in to the scrotum
Causes:
Most inguinal hernias have no particular cause though many happen as a result of elevated pressure in the abdomen. In men, the inguinal canal where the spermatic cord is located that has the vas deferens enters the scrotum. Extra pressure in the abdomen can cause hernia such as straining while moving bowel or urinating, when lifting heavy objects, due to fluid in the abdomen and pregnancy or gain weight. Chronic coughing or sneezing can also cause muscles in the abdomen to tear.
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