Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal hernias occur when the soft tissue usually part of the intestine protrudes through a tear in lower abdominal wall. The bulge of this common condition can be painful, especially when an affected lifts a heavy object.

In many people, the inguinal hernia occurs at birth when the abdominal lining or peritoneum doesn’t close properly. Some other inguinal hernias develop later in life when muscles deteriorate due to aging, strenuous activity. More men than women have inguinal hernias, but anyone can develop hernia, that includes infants, pregnant women and older people.

Although an inguinal hernia is not dangerous, it can lead to life-threatening complications.

Symptoms of Inguinal Hernia

Some inguinal hernias don’t cause any symptoms, some affected persons may not know that they have inguinal hernias until they were discovered by their respective doctors during routine check ups. However, inguinal hernia can be detected if the bulge is visible caused by the protruding intestine.

Other inguinal hernia symptoms include:

• Pain in the groin area, especially when lifting heavy objects
• A heavy or dragging sensation in your groin
• Sometimes, in men, pain and swelling in the scrotal area or around the testicles

Causes of Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal hernias occur as a result of increased pressure within the abdomen, a weak spot in the abdominal wall or a combination of the two.

In men, the weak spot usually occurs along the inguinal canal. This is the area where the spermatic cord, which contains the vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm, enters the scrotum.

In women, the inguinal canal carries a ligament that helps hold the uterus in place, and hernias sometimes occur where connective tissue from the uterus attaches to tissue surrounding the pubic bone.

Other risk factors include:

• Family history
• Chronic cough
• Chronic constipation
• Overweight
• Pregnancy.
• Work Related
• Premature birth
• Certain medical conditions like cystic fibrosis

Treatment Home Remedies for Inguinal Hernia

If there’s a noticeable bulge in your pubic bone area, gently push the hernia back into your abdomen when you’re lying down.

Lying on a slant position with your pelvis higher than your head also may help.

Ice Pack:
An ice pack can reduce the swelling enough so that the hernia slides in easily.

If the hernia can’t be pushed back in the abdomen, the herniated intestine may have become trapped or incarcerated in the abdominal wall; this leads to a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention to avoid further complications

Prevention and suggestions for Inguinal Hernia

Maintain a healthy weight.
Consume high-fiber foods.
Avoid lifting heavy objects.
Avoid smoking.