HealthyCanada.com

A hernia is a condition in which part of the intestine bulges through a weak area in the abdominal muscles. An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin (the area between the abdomen and thigh). It is called "inguinal" because the intestines push through a weak spot in the inguinal canal a triangle-shaped opening between layers of abdominal muscle near the groin.

Symptoms of inguinal hernia may include a lump in the groin near the thigh; pain in the groin; and in severe cases partial or complete blockage of the intestine.

There are two types of inguinal hernia direct and indirect. The indirect type results from an opening that does not close as it should before birth. The direct type is believed to be caused by wear and tear as we age. Older adults and those who are overweight are at a higher risk for direct inguinal hernias because of increased stress on the lower abdominal muscles. Lifting a heavy object or doing other activities that put pressure on the abdominal muscles such as frequent coughing or straining when urinating or having a bowel movement may trigger a hernia.

The main treatment for inguinal hernia is surgery to repair the opening in the muscle wall. This is done because the opening can sometimes get a piece of bowel caught in it which can be a surgical emergency. Sometimes the weak area is reinforced with steel mesh or wire. If the protruding intestine becomes twisted or traps stool part of the intestine might need to be removed. The risk of a hernia coming back varies for each surgery.