Inguinal hernia

If you are experiencing propblems with inguinal hernia, our HCA Healthcare UK specialists can diagnose and treat you

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About

Inguinal hernia occurs as a result of a weakness in your abdominal wall. Tissue from organs such as your intestine can break through abdominal muscles. This results in a bulge that can be very painful, and may hurt with actions such as coughing. Enlarged hernias normally require surgery. Our HCA UK specialists are able to diagnose and treat you.

Need to know

  • Symptoms of inguinal hernia icon plus

    If you develop inguinal hernia, you may experience the following symptoms:
    • a visible bulge in the area around your pubic bone
    • a burning or aching sensation around the bulge
    • pain in this area with sudden movements, such as coughing
    • pain, discomfort or feeling of weakness around the groin
    • for men, you may feel pain or swelling in your testicles.

  • Diagnosis icon plus

    Diagnosis for inguinal hernia can be made with a physical examination. Your consultant may also ask you to stand and cough. If this causes you pain, you are showing a major symptom of the condition.

    If the diagnosis remains unclear, your consultant may request you to have an X-ray or CT scan. These will provide more in-depth images of your abdominal area, helping to identify a hernia.

  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    There are two main procedures for inguinal hernia repair. They can be carried out under local or general anaesthetic. Treatment options include:
    • A laparoscopy. Your surgeon will make several incisions in your abdomen, and insert a laparoscope (small tube with a camera) into one of the incisions. This is to see your organs more clearly. Your surgeon will repair your hernia, tying it back into your abdomen with synthetic mesh
    • For an open procedure, your surgeon makes an incision in your groin area. They then push the protruding tissue back into your abdomen, reinforcing it with synthetic mesh. The incision will be glued or stitched together

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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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