Do I Have Inguinal Hernia?

Do you have a bulge on either side of the groin (on either side of your pubic bone)?

Do you have a bulge in the groin area that becomes more obvious when you're upright, especially if you cough or strain?

Do you have a bulge on one or both sides of the groin that disappears when lying down?

Do you have a burning or aching sensation at the bulge?

Do you have the pain or discomfort in your groin, especially when bending over, coughing or lifting?

Do you have a heavy or dragging sensation in your groin?

Do you have weakness or pressure in your groin?

Do you have pain and swelling around the testicles?

Do you have a bulge that increases over time?

Do you have a bulge that used to go back inside the abdomen but no longer does?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have an inguinal hernia. An inguinal hernia is a medical condition in which a part of the intestine protrudes through the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal is a passage in the front wall of the abdomen, between the abdomen and the thigh on both sides of the body. An inguinal hernia occurs more often on the right than on the left side. It is more common in men than in women. Men with a family history of inguinal hernia, smokers, and those who have previously had abdominal surgery have a higher risk of developing an inguinal hernia.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have an inguinal hernia. An inguinal hernia is a medical condition in which part of your intestine bulge through the abdominal wall into the inguinal area (groin area). This condition can be the result of a congenital defect of the abdominal wall (indirect inguinal hernia), or it can occur later in life as a result of acquired weakness of the abdominal wall muscles, for example due to excessive straining or heavy lifting (direct inguinal hernia). It often gets worse during activities and improves when you lie down. A diagnosis is usually based on a physical examination.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have an inguinal hernia. An inguinal hernia is a common condition characterized by a protrusion of the intestine through the weakened muscles of the lower abdominal wall into the groin area. About 65 percent of the affected people have symptoms. It is often a harmless condition, but it can be painful. The pain occurs mainly when bending, lifting, straining due to bowel movements or coughing. If your hernia is small and does not cause too many problems, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. However, large hernias or those that are enlarging over time, require surgical treatment.