Inguinal Hernia

What is an Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia happens when soft tissue—like part of the intestine—pushes through a weak spot or opening in the lower belly wall, near the groin.

What are the signs of an inguinal hernia?

It often shows up as a bulge in the groin or scrotum that may get bigger when you cough, bend, or lift something heavy.

Symptoms can include:

• A visible or felt lump in the groin.
• Aching or pressure in the area.
• Sometimes no pain at all.

Most inguinal hernias don’t go away on their own. They can get larger over time and may need surgery if they cause discomfort or complications.

How is an inguinal hernia diagnosed?

An inguinal hernia is usually diagnosed by a doctor during a physical exam. Here’s how it’s done:

• History: The doctor asks about symptoms like a bulge, pain, or heaviness in the groin, especially when coughing, lifting, or standing.
• Physical exam:
  • The doctor feels the groin area for a lump.
  • You may be asked to stand up and cough or strain, since this makes the hernia easier to feel or see.
• Imaging (if needed): Most of the time, the exam is enough. But if it’s hard to tell, tests like ultrasound or a CT scan may be used to confirm.

How is an inguinal hernia treated?

1. Watchful waiting

• If the hernia is small and not painful, the doctor may just monitor it.
• Lifestyle advice may include avoiding heavy lifting or straining.
• But the hernia will not heal on its own.

2. Surgery (the only permanent treatment)

Surgery is recommended if the hernia is painful, enlarging, or causing complications. Two main approaches:

• Open hernia repair: A cut is made in the groin, the bulging tissue is pushed back in, and the weak spot is repaired (often with mesh).
• Laparoscopic repair: Small incisions and a camera are used; the hernia is repaired from inside, also usually with mesh. This method may allow quicker recovery
• Robotic Surgery:  Small incisons and the davinci robot are used to repair the hernia from the inside, also usually with mesh.  This method allows a quicker recovery with less pain.  Dr Rohit Sahai is specialized in this technique.  Call or request an appointment to learn more.  

3. Emergency surgery

• If the hernia gets trapped (incarcerated) or blood flow is cut off (strangulated), it’s a medical emergency. This needs urgent surgery.

If you’re concerned about an inguinal hernia, call Sonoran Surgical or schedule a consultation online today.