The following symptoms and complaints may indicate an inguinal hernia (inguinal hernia):
Leading symptoms
- Recurrent pain in the inguinal region (69% discomfort in the hernia, 66% in the groin; 50% increased peristalsis).
- Swelling or protrusion in the groin region.
Possible accompanying symptoms
- Pain in the genital area
- Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Micturition disorders (disorders during urination) or pain.
- Increased peristalsis of the intestine (muscle activity of the intestine), possibly also tenesmus (intestinal spasms).
Other indications
- Approximately 18% of patients with an inguinal hernia are asymptomatic (see also under Medical Device Diagnostics under Abdominal Sonography).
- If there is a reducible (“returnable”) protrusion of the inguinal region, this is a clear sign of a hernia. In such cases, no further diagnostics are necessary.
Warning signs (red flags)
- Pressure pain, non-reducible swelling, abdominal pain, or vomiting → think of: Incarceration/incarceration of hernia sac contents in a hernia (→ emergency admission to surgery).
