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Inguinal Hernia - most common type in men

A hernia is a lump that occurs when part of the small bowel or abdominal tissue protrudes through a torn area in the lower wall of the abdomen. When this bulge occurs in the groin, it is described as an "inguinal" hernia.

Inguinal hernias or ruptures are the most common type of hernia. An inguinal hernia occurs when a loop of intestine enters the inguinal canal in the groin area, between the pubis and the top of the leg. The intestine goes through the lower layers of the weakened abdominal wall and creates a lump. The resulting bulge can sometimes be agonizingly painful, especially when you cough, bend over or lift a heavy object.

Men are more vulnerable to an inguinal hernia as compared to women. The reason being a weakness that remains along the inguinal canal after the testicles descend into the scrotum before a child is born.

A hernia is not dangerous in itself, but there is a risk that it will get trapped. It can lead to cutting off of the blood supply to the hernia and causing life-threatening conditions like gangrene and peritonitis. If not treated on time, a hernia is likely to get larger and become more uncomfortable. It may result in the bowel obstruction.

Causes of Inguinal Hernia

There is no apparent cause for inguinal hernia. People with a family history of hernia, with cystic fibrosis and those with an un-descended testicle are at a risk of getting inguinal hernia.

Other causes include:

• Heavy lifting
• Straining when using the bathroom
• Constipation
• Excessive coughing or sneezing
• Vigorous exercise or sex

Symptoms

• Tender lump in the groin or scrotum
• Tenderness or sharp pain in the groin aggravated by lifting or bending

Treatment

Treatment is needed to avoid a serious condition called a strangulated hernia. If not treated on time the hernia bulging through the muscle wall can obstruct the flow of blood to the intestine. It can also stop the flow of intestinal contents which may lead to tissue death.

An inguinal hernia can often be reduced by being pushed back into place. If it is non-reducible then surgery is required under a general anesthesia. The segment of bowel is put back in the abdominal cavity and the muscle is closed. There are two forms of surgery:

Open hernia repair

An open hernia repair is performed through a cut about 10 cm (4'') long in the groin. The hernia is pushed back through the gap into its proper place inside the abdomen. After the hernia is replaces, the gap is closed with stitches. A mesh or plug may be inserted in place of some of these stitches in order to strengthen the wall of the abdomen.

Keyhole hernia surgery

Keyhole hernia surgery involves making a small cut near the umbilicus (belly button) and inserting a flexible, tube-like telescope which is called laparoscope. The abdominal cavity may be filled with gas to give the surgeon a better view of the interior spaces. Instruments are then inserted through the laparoscope or further small cuts are made to perform the repair.

Inguinal hernia can be caused by any activity that leads to a weakness in the abdominal wall. If pain and tenderness are felt in the groin area, a doctor should be consulted and proper care should be taken to avoid any complications.