Inguinal Hernias
Inguinal hernias are a much more common type to develop in the groin area, and they occur more often in men. The inguinal canal is responsible for creating a passageway for reproductive parts in both genders. Male inguinal canals tend to be bigger and to have larger areas of weakness than the inguinal canals of women do. Inguinal hernias occur at the base of the abdomen around the groin and account for almost three quarters of hernias. As with so many of the other types, these hernias can be hard to catch without symptoms and hold the potential to be extremely dangerous if complications ensue.
Inguinal hernias are categorized as direct or indirect. A direct inguinal hernia occurs more often in adults and is suspected to be the result of muscles growing weaker with age, making it easier for hernia to occur. An indirect inguinal hernia, on the other hand, is more common at birth. Although it can occur at any age, it is most likely to happen when the inguinal canal has not yet fully developed. “Direct” refers to the direct result of muscles weakened over time, while “indirect” refers to a natural weakness.
Again, a small bulge near the groin may be indicative of an inguinal hernia. Don’t be surprised if this bulge disappears upon lying down, as whatever has pushed through the abdominal muscle falls backwards, out of sight. Sometimes you may be able to push the bulge back in, or apply an ice pack to reduce swelling sufficiently to do so. Some pain or discomfort may accompany this bulge, particularly when performing activities that put stress on the area, like coughing or heavy lifting. Even if no pain is present the area may feel odd. In males, the testicles may become swollen or painful if the protrusion disrupts the scrotum.
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