A closer look at inguinal hernias

An inguinal hernia is a common ailment that primarily affects the inguinal canal, a passageway in the lower abdominal region.

Here, Mr Paul Herbert, renowned consultant transplant, general and vascular surgeon, offers an expert insight into inguinal hernias, including their causes, symptoms and treatment.

What is an inguinal hernia?

In an adult, an inguinal area is caused by a defect in the muscles and tissues in the abdominal wall, leading to the protrusion of the abdominal contents and their coverings through the defect. This can result in a bulge in the groin area, which can be painless or sometimes painful.

Over time, the bulge can enlarge or become more painful. Sometimes, the contents of the bulge can get stuck, requiring urgent surgical exploration and repair of the hernia.

What are the causes?

Causes can either be:

• Congenital - you are born with weaknesses in the groin area.
• Acquired - you develop weaknesses in the groin area as muscles get weaker or, rarely, after an injury.

Having a high BMI can contribute towards hernias developing and worsening.

What are the symptoms?

You may just notice a lump in the groin area, which may resolve on lying flat or after being pushed in. Sometimes, you may notice a swelling in the scrotum, which may indicate a hernia - you should always ask your GP to have a look at this.

Sometimes, the lump is painful and sore.

Is surgery the only treatment option for inguinal hernias?

Besides surgery, hernias can be managed:

• With no treatment, if asymptomatic – though they can be at risk of future surgery.
• With the use of a truss or belt.

However, if you have or think you have a hernia, you should always get it assessed by a medical professional like your GP or surgeon who will advise you on this.

Can inguinal hernias go away on their own?

Inguinal hernias do not resolve on their own, and can enlarge over time.

How long is the recovery period after inguinal hernia surgery?

This varies between patients. Generally, after your procedure you will be sore and you will need painkillers, but you should be able to go home. There may be bruising and aching, which may take a few weeks to settle down. Showering may occur within 24-48 hours with a waterproof dressing over any wounds you may have. In addition, you may also be encouraged to move around regularly after the operation to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

You should be able restart lighter activity and non-strenuous work within two weeks of having hernia surgery. You may be asked not to lift anything heavy for the first couple of weeks, because the strain of exercise- such as heavy lifting - can increase the risk of early recurrence.

In many cases, complete recovery is expected at six weeks after the operation, when you will be able to resume your normal level of activity. However, more complex cases may require a longer time to fully recover, with some cases taking up to six months. It is vital that you receive advice from your surgeon on this.

To schedule an appointment with Mr Paul Herbert, head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.