What are the signs of an inguinal hernia?
In some cases, an inguinal hernia causes no discomfort, and the first sign of the hernia is a bulge or lump in the groin or scrotum (the sac that contains a man’s testicles). An inguinal hernia may cause pain when a person: • Lifts heavy objects • Coughs • Strains during a bowel movement, or when urinating • Stands or sits for a long time If a loop of intestine gets tightly trapped in the tear in the muscle layer, the supply of blood to the intestines can become cut off. This is called strangulation, and can cause: • Severe abdominal pain • Nausea and vomiting Strangulation is a medical emergency, and requires a doctor’s immediate attention.
