A hernia happens when part of an organ pushes through an abnormal opening or weak spot. An inguinal hernia, specifically, occurs in the abdomen near the groin. This type of hernia develops when fatty or intestinal tissues push through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the inguinal canal at the base of the abdomen. When a hernia forms in this area, it can create a noticeable bulge and may cause pain, especially during movement.
Inguinal hernias are more common in men, with about one in four men experiencing this condition at some point in their lives. Many people might not seek treatment if the hernia is small or doesn’t cause symptoms. However, addressing early with a hernia specialist can prevent worsening and reduce discomfort. Let’s take a look in depth!
Types Of Inguinal Hernia by Hernia Specialist:
There are mainly two types of inguinal hernias:
- Indirect inguinal hernia:
Indirect inguinal hernias are common in children and usually occur due to a congenital disability in the abdominal wall. This defect can be due to a persistent opening that fails to close properly during fetal development or weakness in the inguinal canal.
- Direct inguinal hernia:
A direct inguinal hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles along the inguinal canal. While this type of hernia is common in adults, it is rare in children.
Both direct and indirect inguinal hernias normally look and feel similar in adults. They can appear on one or both sides of the groin. A surgeon for hernia may not know which type of hernia you have until surgery is performed. However, both types are treated similarly.
Symptoms Of Inguinal Hernia:
Not all inguinal hernias show symptoms. Sometimes, the symptoms can come and go, as the hernia might slide in and out of the opening. You might only notice it during certain activities. In children, a lump in the groin area might appear when they cry and disappear when they sleep. An indirect inguinal hernia might not be felt because it can hide behind muscle fibres. Some common symptoms may include:
- Groin Bulge: A noticeable lump in the groin area, which may become more visible when standing, coughing, or lifting heavy objects.
- Pain or Discomfort: The bulge might be painful or uncomfortable, ranging from a dull ache to sharp pain. Physical activity or straining can worsen the pain, while rest often helps.
- Weakness or Pressure: A feeling of weakness, heaviness, or pressure in the groin, significantly after standing for long periods or physical work.
- Swelling or Tenderness: The area around the bulge may be swollen or tender, with variable levels of tenderness.
- Relief When Lying Down: The bulge and discomfort often improve or disappear when lying down, as the protruding tissue returns to the abdomen.
- Worsening with Activity: Lifting heavy objects, straining during bowel movements, or exercising can worsen symptoms.
When To Consult The Best Hernia Surgeon In Ahmedabad:
- Continuous or Unbearable Pain: If the pain doesn’t go away with rest or becomes intense, consult with a surgeon for hernia immediately.
- Irreducible Hernia: If the hernia cannot be pushed back into the abdomen and becomes stuck, it may need urgent consultation with a hernia specialist.
- Signs of Complications: Watch for nausea, vomiting, fever, or symptoms of bowel obstruction (like inability to pass gas or stool). These could indicate a strangulated hernia, a serious condition where the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off; these signs indicate to consult immediately the best hernia surgeon in Ahmedabad.
Diagnosis Of An Inguinal Hernia:
A hernia specialist diagnoses an inguinal hernia through a physical examination. During this exam, they may ask you to cough while standing to observe the hernia when it’s most visible. If the hernia is reducible, a surgeon for hernia can push it back into the abdomen when you lie down. However, if this isn’t possible, it may be an incarcerated or strangulated hernia.
If the hernia isn’t visible externally, the hernia specialist may order an imaging test to get a better look inside. An ultrasound is acceptable, but sometimes, a more detailed scan, like a CT scan, may be needed in rare cases.
Treatment Of Inguinal Hernia:
Surgery is the main treatment for inguinal hernias and is highly successful when performed by a skilled surgeon for hernia.
There are two main types of surgical approaches:
- Open Inguinal Herniorrhaphy: This involves making a single larger incision near the groin on the abdomen.
- Laparoscopic Inguinal Herniorrhaphy: This method uses several smaller abdominal incisions. A thin tube with a camera lets the hernia specialist see inside and perform the surgery.
Both techniques aim to return the herniated tissue to the abdomen and repair the weakened abdominal wall. Mesh is usually used to strengthen the area. After repositioning the tissue, the best hernia surgeon in Ahmedabad closes the incision with sutures, staples, or adhesive glue.
Prevention And Management:
To reduce the risk of developing an inguinal hernia, consider these tips:
- Minimise lifting heavy objects, especially if you aren’t used to it.
- Practise proper lifting techniques to avoid straining your abdominal wall.
- Manage your weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Conduct exercises like planks to strengthen your core muscles and support your abdominal wall.
- Stay hydrated and eat a fibre-rich diet to avoid constipation, which can strain your abdominal muscles.
- Smoking weakens abdominal muscles and increases the risk of chronic coughing. Quitting can help reduce these risks.
- Address any underlying conditions that cause coughing, such as respiratory infections or asthma, to lower your risk.
Wrapping Up:
Inguinal hernias, a common issue especially among men, occur when intestinal tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the groin. While not all hernias show symptoms, they can cause discomfort and require medical attention if continued. Diagnosed through physical exams or imaging, they are treated with surgery by a hernia specialist. Preventive efforts include avoiding heavy lifting, maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening core muscles, and treating chronic coughs and constipation. Proper care and timely intervention can effectively manage and prevent hernias.
