Inguinal hernia – Definition
An inguinal hernia is a bulge in the inguinal canal. Normally, the area is well protected by muscles, tendons and ligaments, which form a solid shell. If the sheath tears open due to wear and tear, strong short-term or long-term permanent stress, it can lead to hernias, the inguinal hernia.
Men are more frequently affected by inguinal hernia than women. Infants, children and adults can be equally affected. In adults, a visible and/or palpable swelling is often seen in hernia.
Pain is usually not extremely noticeable, but a feeling of pressure is felt, which is increased when coughing, heavy strain during movements or pressing when going to the toilet. If the pain of a hernia suddenly becomes stronger, a doctor should be consulted immediately, since it could be an incarceration of the hernia and is an absolute indication for surgery. In addition, the inguinal hernia should always be examined, as a possible incarceration of an abdominal organ should be excluded.
This incarceration can lead to a death of the intestinal area. The examination is carried out via MRI or ultrasound.After determining the extent of the inguinal hernia the therapy is decided. In case of a slight inguinal hernia or inoperability, an abdominal ligament is recommended, which supports the abdomen from the outside. In case of a severe inguinal hernia surgery should be performed without fail.
Causes
In adulthood, a general weakness of the connective tissue can become the cause of an inguinal hernia. This results in weakness of the abdominal wall and stretched ligaments and tendons, which can no longer keep the abdominal wall stable. The area of the abdominal wall can tear open due to an additional jerky strong strain.
A too wide inguinal canal or increased internal abdominal pressure can also promote the inguinal hernia. An increase in abdominal pressure is triggered by physical stress, such as chronic coughing, heavy pressing during bowel movements or chronic constipation, weight lifting or throwing sports. In women, an inguinal hernia can also occur during pregnancy, since the physiology of pregnancy causes the abdominal wall to be extremely stretched and strong pressing is required during the birth process. Groin pain should therefore be treated early on.
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