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Inguinal Hernia

What is an Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall, often into the inguinal canal. This is the most common type of hernia and can affect both men and women, though it is more frequent in men. Inguinal hernias do not heal on their own and typically require surgical repair to prevent complications.

Symptoms of an Inguinal Hernia​

Common symptoms of an inguinal hernia include:

Bulge in the Groin Area: The most noticeable symptom is a bulge on one or both sides of the groin, especially when standing, bending, or coughing.

Pain or Discomfort: Particularly when lifting, bending, or exercising.

Weakness or Pressure: A sensation of weakness, heaviness, or pressure in the groin.

Burning or Aching Sensation: Sometimes the herniated area can feel tender, with a burning or aching sensation.

If you experience sudden, severe pain, nausea, or vomiting, it could be a sign of a strangulated hernia, which requires immediate medical attention.

Causes and Risk Factors​

Inguinal hernias can be caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain, and factors that contribute to their development include:

Aging: Muscle tissue weakens with age.

Heavy Lifting: Straining while lifting heavy objects can contribute to hernia formation.

Chronic Coughing: Persistent coughing increases pressure in the abdominal area.

Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the abdominal muscles.

Pregnancy: Can weaken the abdominal muscles and increase the risk of hernias.

Diagnosis of an Inguinal Hernia

Diagnosis of an inguinal hernia usually involves a physical examination where your doctor will check for a visible or palpable bulge in the groin area. You may be asked to stand, cough, or strain to make the hernia more noticeable. In some cases, additional imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the hernia.

Treatments for an Inguinal Hernia

At Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics, we offer several treatment options for inguinal hernias, depending on the size, symptoms, and risk of complications:

Watchful Waiting: In some cases of small, painless hernias, your doctor may recommend monitoring the hernia to see if it worsens over time before proceeding with surgery.

Surgical Hernia Repair: Surgery is often the most effective treatment for inguinal hernias, especially if the hernia is large or causes pain.

What Happens If Left Untreated?​

If left untreated, inguinal hernias can grow larger and cause increasing pain or discomfort. Over time, there is a risk that the hernia may become incarcerated (trapped), leading to bowel obstruction, or strangulated (cutting off blood supply), which is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery. Strangulated hernias can lead to tissue death and life-threatening complications, making prompt treatment essential.

 

Schedule a Consultation

If you suspect you have an inguinal hernia or have been diagnosed and are considering surgery, contact Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics today to schedule a consultation. Our team of experts will evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment option for you.

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  • Schertz Clinic
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