Inguinal Hernias

An inguinal (groin) hernia develops when the lining of the abdominal cavity weakens and the intestines push through the weak spot in the groin area.

Causes

Causes of an inguinal hernia include obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting, and straining to pass a stool.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an inguinal hernia may start slowly. They include the following:

• Visible bulges slightly above or within the scrotum
• Pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen and scrotum
• Feeling of pressure or weakness in the groin
• Aches and pain in the abdomen that start and stop

Treatment

Inguinal hernias are usually treated with surgery to repair the opening in the muscle wall. In some cases the hernia may become twisted (called a strangulated hernia) and cut off blood supply to the tissue. Rapidly increasing pain in the groin is a sign that the hernia has become strangulated. Go to the hospital if you suspect that you have a strangulated hernia.
 
Self-Care

• Avoid heavy lifting, which can cause straining and place more pressure on the abdomen.
• Use correct lifting techniques: Lift objects by bending your legs and keeping your back straight. Your leg muscles, not your back or abdomen, should do the most work.

Hiatal Hernias

A hiatal hernia occurs when a weak spot in the diaphragm muscle allows the stomach to push up through the diaphragm. The hernia develops at the spot where the esophagus meets the stomach.

Causes

Hiatal hernias can be caused by obesity, pregnancy, wearing tight clothing, sudden physical exertion, straining or coughing, vomiting, or injury to the abdomen.

Symptoms

Hiatal hernias cause no symptoms. However, when you have a hiatal hernia, stomach contents may pass back into the esophagus from the stomach, causing heartburn, indigestion, chest pains, and hiccupping and belching.

Treatment

Hiatal hernias usually do not require treatment unless you develop severe heartburn or an inflammation of the esophagus. In these cases your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the problem.

Self-Care

• Take antacids.
• Avoid foods that may irritate the lining of your stomach.
• Raise the head of your bed several inches to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. Use 4- to 6-inch blocks under the legs at the head of the bed.
• Eat small, frequent meals.
• Avoid going to sleep or lying down right after meals.

For more information on treatment of heartburn symptoms, see Heartburn, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.