Inguinal Hernia- Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

 

What is an Inguinal Hernia

When tissue pushes through a weak area in the lower abdominal wall, usually the inguinal canal, a passage in the lower abdominal muscles, an inguinal hernia occurs. This kind of hernia can cause pain or discomfort, particularly when bending, coughing, or lifting, and manifest as a bulge in the groin or scrotum.

There are two types

     1. Indirect Inguinal Hernia

  •  caused by an abdominal wall congenital abnormality.

      2. Direct Inguinal Hernia

  •  occurs gradually as a result of abdominal wall muscular weakening.

causes

  1. elevated abdominal pressure
  2. pre-existing abdominal wall weakness
  3. straining during urinating or having bowel motions
  4. hefty lifting
  5. Prolonged sneeze or coughing

Risk Factors:

  1. Male sex (inguinal hernias are eight times more common in men)
  2. Age (as people age, their danger increases)
  3. Family background
  4. Constant constipation
  5. Being overweight
  6. Being pregnant
  7. (Weakens connective tissue) Smoking

Symptoms of Inguinal Hernia

  1. Groin pain or discomfort, particularly while lifting, coughing, or bending
  2. A sensation of weight or drag in the groin
  3. Pain or swelling in the scrotum
  4. Pressure or weakness in the groin
  5. An aching or burning feeling at the bulge

When to seek emergency help

A medical emergency arises if the hernia becomes stuck (incarcerated) or if the blood supply is severed (strangulated). The following are signs of a strangulated hernia:

  1. Excruciating agony
  2. Vomiting or feeling queasy
  3. A fever
  4. A hernia bulge that becomes purple or red

How is an Inguinal hernia Diagnosed?

An inguinal hernia may usually be diagnosed with a healthcare provider's physical examination. Because hernias are more obvious when under pressure, the doctor can advise you to stand, cough, or stretch.

Other tests like an MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound might be suggested in certain situations, particularly if the hernia isn't readily apparent or to rule out other problems.

      1. Watchful Waiting

Your doctor might advise keeping an eye on the hernia if it is tiny and not producing any symptoms. Hernias, on the other hand, are permanent and may eventually necessitate surgery.

     2. Surgical repair

An inguinal hernia can only be permanently treated by surgery. Two primary surgical options are available:

  • Open hernia repair(Herniorrhaphy)

  1. The groin is incised by the surgeon.
  2. The tissue that protrudes is forced back into position.
  3. The weak spot is sewn up and frequently reinforced with mesh.

  • Laparoscopic hernia repair

  1. minimally invasive surgery with a camera and tiny incisions.
  2. quicker time to recuperate.
  3. less pain following surgery.

Complications of Inguinal hernia

  1. When a hernia becomes lodged, it is impossible to force it back in.
  2. Strangulation: When the herniated tissue's blood supply is interrupted, tissue death may result, necessitating immediate surgery.
  3. A portion of the intestine may become obstructed.

Preventing Inguinal hernia

1. Keep Your Weight in Check

The abdominal wall is under more pressure when obese.

2. Exercise regularly

The likelihood of hernia formation can be decreased by strengthening the abdominal muscles.

3. Steers clear of heavy lifting

Make use of safe lifting procedures and avoid undue strain.

4. Consume foods in high fibre

Consume fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to avoid constipation.

5. Give up smoking 

Smoking-induced chronic cough can weaken muscles and raise abdominal pressure.

Living with an Inguinal Hernia

  1. If your doctor advises watchful waiting after diagnosing an inguinal hernia, it's critical to:
  2. Keep an eye on the hernia's size and discomfort.
  3. Steer clear of activities that raise your abdominal pressure.
  4. If recommended, put on a supportive hernia belt.
  5. Make an appointment for routine checkups with your physician.
  6. To ensure a successful recovery, carefully follow all pre- and post-operative instructions if surgery is advised.

Avoid these food

Certain foods should be avoided following hernia surgery because they can result in gas, bloating, or constipation:

  1. Fried or spicy food
  2. Carbonated beverages
  3. Too much caffeine
  4. Junk or processed food
  5. Red meat is more difficult to digest.
  6. Low-fiber foods or white bread
  7. Dairy (if lactose intolerance exists)

In conclusion

A frequent but treatable ailment that should not be disregarded is an inguinal hernia. Complications can be avoided and quality of life can be enhanced with early diagnosis and adequate treatment, particularly surgery when necessary. For a comprehensive assessment, speak with your healthcare professional if you experience any symptoms of a hernia, such as pain or a bulge in your groin.

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