An inguinal hernia is very common in both men and women. These hernias occur when part of the intestine comes through any weak spot in the wall of the lower abdomen. The condition results in a bulge that is evident on the exterior of the body, it can be quite painful especially when you cough or lift a reasonably heavy object. This type of hernia can actually be traced back to birth when the lining of the abdomen does not fully close but in most cases it is a condition which happens later in life as the muscles weaken naturally as a result of various physical activities; either way the condition can be solved when the sufferer has hernia surgery in Reading, PA.
Causes:
In many cases of inguinal hernia there is no apparent cause. It may be from heavy lifting, constipation and the consequent straining, excessive coughing or even strenuous exercise. There are people that are more prone to getting a hernia than others; those which have a family history of the problem or those sufferers of cystic fibrosis.
Symptoms:
An inguinal hernia will always be evident as there will be a pronounced bulge in the groin area or the scrotum. In the event it is evident at birth, it may become more pronounced while they child is vigorously crying. Often there is a noticeable relaxation of the swelling once the child settles down. While the child is relaxed, the doctor can push gently on the bulge and it will often return to the abdomen.
Some hernias of this nature do not manifest themselves with any symptoms and it may not even be noticeable until your doctor discovers it during a routine examination of the abdominal area. In most cases though there is a bulge that is visible, it often becomes more obvious when you are standing, especially when straining or coughing.
Treatment:
When the hernia cannot be reduced by pushing it back into the abdominal wall then hernia surgery in Reading, PA will be required. In many cases the surgery can be performed under general anesthetic on an out-patient basis. Using modern laparoscopic surgical procedures the bowel is put back into the abdominal cavity and the muscle is surgically closed.
At Spring Ridge Surgical Specialists most hernia surgeries are performed using laparoscopic surgical procedures which are minimally invasive.