ABOUT THE CONDITION
Inguinal Hernia
Don’t put off treatment for a hernia – speak to a surgeon today about your treatment options.
Hernias don't go away on their own and can worsen over time.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia is a weakness in the abdominal muscle wall in the groin area. This muscle wall normally holds the inner lining of the abdomen and internal organs in place (inside, where they belong) but a weakness or tear can cause the inner lining to protrude and form a pouch. The visible bulge which forms is usually a loop of intestine protruding through the tear in the muscle and into that pouch.
Inguinal hernias are the most common kind of hernia, accounting for two thirds of hernias overall.1 The vast majority of these hernias are found in males – which accounts for its reputation as a male condition. In fact, men are 25 times more likely to have a groin hernia than women.1 Only a small percentage of people with hernias have them repaired – this may be because they don't know what their treatment options are.
Inguinal hernia symptoms
A hernia won't fix itself and may get bigger and worsen over time. Some hernias have no symptoms and are found during a routine physical. Most inguinal hernias will have one or more of the following signs or symptoms:
- A dull ache
- A feeling of weakness, heaviness, pressure, or tingling
- A burning sensation in the abdomen, groin, or scrotum
Call 000 or go to the emergency department of a hospital if:
- A hernia becomes obstructed (stuck) and strangulated (loses blood supply)
- The hernia bulge no longer goes back inside the body when lying down or with gentle pressure
- You experience a fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or bloody stools
- You lose the ability to have a bowel movement or pass gas
- The bulge turns red, purple, or dark
- There is increased pain in the abdomen or genital region
What causes an inguinal hernia?
Some hernias may be acquired hernias, while others are caused by a congenital weakness, which means a weakness that one was born with. Acquired hernias may be caused by lifting heavy objects, pregnancy, extreme weight gain, or persistent coughing.
What are the treatment options?
An inguinal hernia will not get better on its own. Your doctor may initially want to just monitor your hernia for possible complications – an approach known as ‘watchful waiting’ but in many cases, patients will have to undergo surgical repair. The need for surgery will depend on the size of the hernia and severity of your symptoms.
Find a specialist
If you think you have a hernia or just want to know more about your symptoms, you can start by speaking with your regular doctor using your symptom quiz answers.
If you do have a hernia, you may need to speak with a specialist. These doctors are trained in diagnosing and treating hernias with all the available therapies.
