A groin hernia is an external bulge in the groin area that contains fat, connective tissue, and/or a portion of intestine. There are two main types:
A groin hernia that pushes through the abdominal wall can trap a section of intestine. This can lead to an emergency where the intestine is blocked or strangled.
Anything that causes weakness or tears in the abdominal wall can cause a groin hernia, including:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors include:
Symptoms include:
More serious symptoms may need emergency care:
Most inguinal hernias require surgery. If it is a small hernia that can be pushed back into place, an external pad (called a truss) may be worn to provide support. Surgery is usually still needed at some point.
After surgery , hernias sometimes return, either on the same side or the opposite side. Hernia repair can cause pain and disrupt your quality of life, but these complications are rare.
Surgeries include:
The following strategies may help to prevent a groin hernia:
RESOURCES:
American College of Physicians
http://www.acponline.org/
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Institute for Health Information
http://www.cihi.ca/
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/
References:
Goldmann DR. American College of Physicians Complete Home Medical Guide . New York, NY: DK Publishing; 1999.
Groin hernia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Updated June 2008. Accessed July 27, 2008.
Hawn MT, Itani KM, Giobbie-Hurder A, McCarthy M Jr, Jonasson O, Neumayer LA. Patient-reported outcomes after inguinal herniorrhaphy. Surgery . 2006;140:198-205.
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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