What is an inguinal hernia?

An inguinal hernia occurs when part of an internal organ bulges through a weak area of muscle that forms the wall of the abdomen at the groin. This may result in a visible groin bulge or (in males) a bulge or mass within the scrotum. The bulge may hurt at times. Although a groin hernia is the most common form of hernia, there are other types of hernia, including

• Umbilical, a bulge around/at the belly button
• Incisional, a bulge through a scar
• Hiatal, a small opening in the diaphragm that allows the upper part of the stomach to move up into the chest.
• Congenital diaphragmatic hernia, a birth defect that needs surgery

Most inguinal hernias happen because an opening in the muscle wall does not close as it should before birth. That leaves a weak area in the belly muscle. Pressure on that area can cause the tissue to push through and bulge out. A hernia can occur soon after birth or at any age later in life.

Symptoms:

The main symptom of an inguinal hernia is a bulge in the groin or scrotum. It often feels like a round lump. The bulge may form over a period of weeks or months / it can appear suddenly with pain. A hernia may also cause swelling and a feeling of heaviness, tugging, in the area of the hernia. These symptoms may get better when you lie down.

Sudden pain, nausea, and vomiting are signs that a part of your intestine may have become trapped in the hernia. Untreated hernias can cause pain and health problems.

Diagnosis:

A doctor can confirm the presence of a hernia during a physical exam. The mass may increase in size when coughing, lifting, or straining. The hernia (bulge) may not be obvious in infants and children, except when the child is crying or coughing.

Investigations:

Hernia is a clinical diagnosis. Ultrasound abdomen is advised in suspected cases.

Treatment:

The usual treatment for a hernia is surgery to repair the opening in the muscle wall. Babies and young children are more likely to have tissue get trapped in a hernia. If your child has a hernia, he or she will need surgery to repair it.