Inguinal Hernia in Men: Symptoms, Signs, and Causes

An inguinal hernia is a bulge that occurs when part of an internal organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the muscle in the upper part of the inner surface of the thigh, that is, in the groin. It occurs significantly more often in men: the risk is 27% in men and 3% in women. Below is how a hernia manifests and what causes it.

What an inguinal hernia is and what types exist

An inguinal hernia is a pathological protrusion of the peritoneum into the cavity of the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal is a triangular-section cavity: in men, the spermatic cord passes through it; in women, the round ligament of the uterus. Inguinal hernias are among the most common hernias of the abdominal wall.

By the mobility of the hernia sac, non-strangulated and strangulated hernias are distinguished. In a non-strangulated hernia, spontaneous reduction is possible; in a strangulated hernia, the bulge and its contents cannot be returned to their physiological position. Congenital and acquired hernias are also distinguished separately.

Symptoms and signs of inguinal hernia in men

The clinical picture in uncomplicated inguinal hernias is generally uniform. The patient complains of a tumor-like bulge in the inguinal region and pain of varying intensity, especially during physical strain. The presence of such complaints is sufficient to establish the correct diagnosis.

In a strangulated inguinal hernia, a different picture is observed:

• sudden onset and irreducibility of the bulge;
• sharp, gradually intensifying pain, dull pain in the lower abdomen or groin;
• nausea, hiccups, repeated excruciating vomiting;
• retention of stool and gas, flatulence, constipation, intestinal pain;
• tension and tenderness of the hernial bulge.

Does an inguinal hernia hurt and what kinds of pain occur

Yes, pain is part of the typical picture. In an uncomplicated hernia, it is pain of varying intensity that intensifies during physical strain. In strangulation, the pain is sharp and gradually increases; dull pain in the lower abdomen or groin is also possible. The mechanism is as follows: due to compression in the narrow ring of the hernial orifice, ischemia of the strangulated organs occurs, which produces a pronounced pain syndrome.

Congenital inguinal hernia

In a congenital hernia, the elements of the spermatic cord are spread over the hernia sac and intimately connected to it, the testicle lies in the wall of the hernia sac, and its own tunica protrudes into the lumen of the sac. In sliding hernias, urinary disorders and tenesmus are possible.

Causes: what causes an inguinal hernia

Predisposing factors: non-closure of the vaginal process of the peritoneum, atrophy of adipose tissue in the area of the inguinal canal with weight loss, muscle degeneration in obesity and old age. The passage during the embryonic period of the descending testicle and spermatic cord through the inguinal canal creates anatomical prerequisites. Complete obliteration of the vaginal process by 7 months of life occurs in 35% of cases, by 12 months — in 41%, in adults — in 90%.

Acquired hernias appear, as a rule, after episodes of significant increase in intra-abdominal pressure — lifting heavy objects, carrying loads, and similar actions. The combination of muscle weakness and strain can also contribute to a hernia.

Can women have an inguinal hernia and when a doctor is needed

Yes, but significantly less often: the risk is 3% versus 27% in men. Diagnosis includes external examination in standing and lying positions of both inguinal regions. A hernia may not require treatment if it does not cause symptoms; if symptoms are present, surgery is discussed. The extent of surgery depends on the location and size of the hernia and the general condition.

The bulge itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if in a strangulated hernia there is sudden onset, irreducibility, sharp intensifying pain, repeated vomiting, retention of stool and gas, tension and tenderness of the bulge.

This material is for reference: it describes signs and causes but does not replace consultation with a doctor.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer