Inguinal hernia is a condition in which a part of an internal organ in the abdominal cavity, usually small intestine, protrudes through a weak point in the inguinal canal.

Causes

• Congenital defect
• Overweight
• Heavy lifting
• Straining during bowel movements
• Chronic cough

Symptoms

• Bulge on either or both sides of the groin
• Bulge that appears on straining and may disappear on lying down
• Discomfort or pressure in the groin
• Pain
• Nausea or vomiting

Treatment
Usually, treatment is surgical and may be done conventionally or laparoscopically:

• Herniorrhaphy to push the protruding organ back in place and repair the weakness
• Hernioplasty to repair the weakness by inserting a mesh

Prevention

• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Maintain healthy weight
• Avoid chronic cough