Inguinal Hernia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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What is an inguinal hernia?

An inguinal hernia happens when abdominal organs or tissue push through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. The abdominal wall is made of fat and muscle. It holds the intestines in place. The hernia may contain fluid, tissue from the abdomen, or part of an organ (such as an intestine).

What causes an inguinal hernia?

The cause of your hernia may not be known. You may have been born with a weak spot or opening in the abdominal wall. The following may increase your risk for an inguinal hernia:

• Overweight or obesity
• A chronic cough, pregnancy, or chronic constipation
• Intense exercise or lifting heavy objects often
• Being male or older age
• A family history of a hernia
• Surgery or trauma to the abdomen, such as from a motor vehicle accident

What are the signs and symptoms of an inguinal hernia?

A hernia may happen over time or it may happen suddenly. Some movements can make symptoms worse. These movements include when you cough, sneeze, or strain to have a bowel movement. Symptoms may also worsen if you lift heavy objects or sit or stand for a long time. You may have any of the following:

• A soft lump or bulge in your groin, lower abdomen, or scrotum
• Pain or burning in your abdomen or groin
• Pressure, weakness, or a heavy feeling in your groin

How is an inguinal hernia diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and when they started. Tell your provider about other medical conditions you have and your activities. You may need to bend or cough so that your provider can feel your hernia. You may also need any of the following:

• Blood or urine tests may be used to check your kidney function or find signs of infection.
• Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan pictures may show a blockage in your intestines or lack of blood flow to your organs. You may be given contrast liquid to help organs show up better in the pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.

How is an inguinal hernia treated?

• Watchful waiting may be recommended if your hernia is small and not painful. This means you do not receive immediate treatment, but you have regular exams to check for changes. If your hernia becomes larger or painful during watchful waiting, your provider may recommend surgery.
• Medicines may be given to reduce pain or swelling.
• Manual reduction of your hernia may be needed. Manual reduction means your healthcare provider uses hands to put firm, steady pressure on your hernia. Your provider will continue to apply pressure until the hernia disappears inside the abdominal wall.
• Surgery is usually done to place the hernia back inside the abdominal wall. You may need surgery if the hernia stops blood flow to any of your organs. Surgery may also be needed if your hernia causes a hole in the intestines, or blocks the intestines.

How can I manage my symptoms and prevent another hernia?

• Do not lift heavy objects. This can increase pressure on your abdominal muscles and make your hernia worse or cause another hernia.
• Drink liquids as directed. Liquids may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
• Apply ice as directed. Ice helps decrease swelling and pain. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you place it on your hernia. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed.
• Eat foods high in fiber. Fiber may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Foods that contain fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains.
• Maintain a healthy weight. If your body weight is higher than recommended, weight loss may help relieve your symptoms. Your healthcare provider will tell you what a healthy weight is for you. Your provider can help you create a safe weight loss plan, if needed.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can weaken the abdominal wall. This may increase your risk for another hernia. Ask your provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.

When should I seek immediate care?

• You have severe abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting.
• Your abdomen is larger than usual.
• Your hernia gets bigger or is purple or blue.
• You see blood in your bowel movements.
• You are unable to have a bowel movement or pass gas.
• You feel weak, dizzy, or faint.

When should I call my doctor?

• You have a fever.
• You have pain even after you take medicine.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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