Are you wondering if the pain in your stomach or groin is caused by a hernia? Hernias affect both men and women; however, the symptoms differ. In women, groin hernias are substantially less common. Hernias can be uncomfortable and do not go away on their own, says an expert of Clinica Health, who is one of the best hernia surgeons in Kolkata.

What’s the good news? Almost all hernias can be corrected surgically.

What is an inguinal hernia?

An inguinal hernia arises when tissue, such as a portion of the intestine, protrudes through a weak area in the abdominal muscles. The resulting protrusion can be unpleasant, particularly when coughing, bending down, or lifting a large object. Many hernias, however, are painless.

An inguinal hernia is not always hazardous. However, it does not improve on its own and might develop into life-threatening problems. Your doctor would most likely recommend surgery to repair a painful or growing inguinal hernia. Repairing an inguinal hernia is a routine surgical surgery.

What are the symptoms of an inguinal (groin) hernia?

It is critical to recognize that both men and women can develop inguinal hernias. People frequently believe that only men get them and for anatomical reasons. They do, but, inguinal hernias can occur in both men and women, says the specialist of laparoscopic hernia surgery in Kolkata.

Many doctors concur that women are likely under-diagnosed for this ailment because their symptoms differ from men’s and they may or may not have a visible bulge. If your symptoms point to a hernia, but your doctor cannot confirm it with an exam, an MRI can provide a proper diagnosis.

Inguinal hernia symptoms include:

• A lump in the area on either side of your pubic bone, which becomes more visible when you’re upright 

• A burning or hurting sensation near the protrusion

• Groin pain or discomfort, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting

Complications

Pressure on surrounding tissues

It is one of the complications of an inguinal hernia. Most inguinal hernias enlarge over time if not surgically fixed. Large hernias in males can cause pain and swelling in the scrotum.

Incarcerated hernia

Suppose the hernia contents become trapped in the weak area of the abdominal wall. In that case, they can clog the intestine, causing extreme discomfort, nausea, vomiting and the inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement, says the specialist of laparoscopic hernia surgery in Kolkata.

Strangulation

Strangulation of hernia can prevent blood passage to a portion of your intestine and can lead to the death of the affected bowel tissue. A strangulated hernia is potentially fatal and necessitates prompt surgery.

When should you see a doctor?

If a hernia bulge turns red, purple, or dark, seek emergency medical attention. See your doctor if you have a painful or obvious protrusion in your groin on either side of your pubic bone, says the hernia doctor in Kolkata.