A hernia occurs when an internal organ protrudes through the wall around it. An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin. A portion of intestine, or inner membrane bulges beneath the skin near the thigh. One can often reduce the bulge simply by pushing it back into place. Minor surgery is sometimes used to close up the hole.

The most common type of inguinal hernia is due to a weakness in a natural ring. This is the opening that allows the testicles to descend before birth. If it does not close fully at birth, the intestines can later slip through it. This type of hernia is more common in men. It can develop at any age. It is fairly common in infants less than one year old.

Another type of inguinal hernia is due to weakness in the muscle at the site. This can be due to aging, injury, heavy lifting, pregnancy, obesity, coughing, or straining during bowel movements.

An inguinal hernia often shows as a lump when the person stands or strains. The lump may go away when the patient lies down. Straining may cause a sharp, steady pain. With a small hernia the affected area may simply appear full. An examiner can feel the pressure of a hernia when the patient coughs.

Surgery can repair most inguinal hernias in a short and simple operation. Many cases require only local pain killers. The surgeon makes a small cut and pushes the gut back to its normal position. He or she then repairs and reinforces the weakened muscle.

A rare but serious complication is a strangulated hernia. This is when the hernia opening pinches a loop of intestine so tightly that it cuts off the blood supply and gangrene develops. Gangrene is dead tissue that becomes infected. This is life-threatening and requires immediate surgery. A surgeon removes the portion of intestines with gangrene and reattaches the healthy ends. Full recovery may take a month.

If you notice a tender, bulging area in your groin, see your healthcare provider. Not all hernias need surgery. In the elderly, in particular, a truss (which is a belt that places pressure on the hernia) may be adequate. If you are scheduled for hernia repair and develop a cough or cold, let your surgeon know. A cough can place stress on stitches in the groin or abdomen. Your doctor may decide to postpone your surgery. After surgery, you should watch the area around the stitches for excessive redness or other signs of infection.

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