Inguinal hernia occurs when a coil of intestine pushes through an opening in the abdominal wall, pressing into the inguinal canal. This hernia is a painless lump or bulge that occurs in the groin and/or scrotum. This lump may become bigger when men are upright and decrease in size when they lie down, because the intestine moves due to gravity. In some cases, a small part of the intestine may become trapped in the scrotum, which can in turn cut off the blood supply to the intestines.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an inguinal hernia usually include:
– A small swelling that appears on one or both sides of the groin that may increase in size
-An enlarged or swollen scrotum
-Discomfort and sharp pain, especially when standing or exercising
-A feeling of pressure in the groin
-A burning, aching or uncomfortable feeling in the penis ad pelvic region
If the hernia becomes strangulated, other symptoms may be present, such as:
– Fever
– Rapid heart rate
– Tenderness and redness on the bulge
– Sudden pain that gets worse in a short space of time
Treatment
If the hernia grows, causes penis pain or other unpleasant symptoms, or becomes strangulated, then the solution is generally surgery. This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and includes two main types:
1. Open hernia repair. This is when a person is given local or general anaesthetic before the surgeon makes an incision in the groin. The hernia is moved back into the abdomen and then the muscle wall is reinforced with stitches. Sometimes the area that has muscle weakness is reinforced with synthetic mesh or screen to provide additional support.
2. Laparoscopy. This is performed under general anaesthetic. During this surgery, a few small incisions in the lower abdomen are done and then a laparoscope is inserted. This is a small tube with a tiny video camera attached to the end of it. It enables the surgeon to see the hernia and surrounding tissue so that he can then use instruments to repair the hernia with synthetic mesh. Laparoscopic surgery is not always a good idea if the hernia is large or the patient has had pelvic surgery before.
Prevention of inguinal hernia
Although men cannot prevent a congenital condition that makes them susceptible to inguinal hernias, there are ways to prevent strain to abdominal muscles and tissues. These include:
1. Following a healthy diet that contains high-fibre foods. Fibre helps to prevent constipation and straining of the muscles in the abdominal area.
2. Lifting heavy objects carefully. Always bending from the knees instead of the waist is recommended.
3. Quitting smoking. Smoking can cause a chronic cough that can lead to, or worsen, an inguinal hernia.
Following a healthy lifestyle is important, as is taking regular note of one’s body to ensure that there are no lumps or bumps present. Getting comfortable with one’s private area is good, as this helps one to pot any changes that may occur. When checking for a hernia in the groin area, fingers should be pressed into the scrotal skin and in surrounding areas. Applying stress to the area can help men feel if anything seems abnormal.
The penis can sometimes be affected by inguinal hernias, with some men who have surgery to treat the hernia experiencing pain afterwards in the penile region. Looking after the penis and keeping it healthy is an important part of self-care.
Using a penis health cream regularly is a good way to keep track of any abnormalities that may occur in the genital region. A quality penis nutrient formula (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) can also strengthen the penis with its beneficial nutrients. A cream such as Man1 Man Oil contains many vitamins that assist in overall penile health, dealing with penis soreness that could arise from a variety of issues, as well as lack of sensitivity, redness and dry skin.
