Inguinal hernia

Definitions

Overview

An inguinal hernia is when soft tissue, often part of the intestine, bulges through a weak point in the abdominal muscles. The bulge is easy to see and feel.

Symptoms

Symptoms include pain, especially when coughing, bending or lifting a heavy object.

Treatments

Treatment may not be needed. But if the hernia is painful or growing bigger, surgery can repair the hernia.