A hernia in the groin, also called inguinal hernia, occurs when abdominal fat or part of the intestine slides through a weak area at the inguinal ring or the opening to the inguinal canal. A groin hernia can appear at any time from infancy throughout adulthood, and it occurs more often in men than in women. Some groin hernias don't cause any symptoms, and a doctor may discover them during a routine examination.
Bulge
According to the Mayo Clinic, a groin hernia may appear as a bulge in the area on either side of the pubic bone. The bulge may increase in size and disappear when lying down. Men who develop a groin hernia often experience pain and swelling in the scrotum around the testicles when the intestine descends into the scrotum.
Groin Pain
A groin hernia can cause pain, which can occur abruptly, or discomfort in the groin area, especially while bending over or coughing, states the Mayo Clinic. A patient may feel pain while straining to have a bowel movement on the toilet. A groin hernia can also cause pain when a person lifts heavy objects or during exercise. The pain typically improves after resting.
Dragging Sensation
A groin hernia can cause a heavy or dragging sensation in the groin, reports the Mayo Clinic. The weak area that created the hernia may cause the person to feel weakness or pressure in the groin as well. According to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, women develop groin hernias in their inguinal passageway, or the area where a ligament holds the uterus in place. A hernia that develops here can cause pressure in the pelvic area. The Mayo Clinic recommends lying down with the pelvis positioned higher than the head to relieve pelvic pressure. The hernia tends to regress back into the abdomen and into its normal place while a patient is in this position.
Abdominal Discomfort
Abdominal discomfort can occur if the herniated intestine becomes trapped in the abdominal wall, explains the Mayo Clinic. The blood supply to the intestine stops if the herniated intestine becomes trapped, reports the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The absence of blood flow to the intestine can lead to a strangulated hernia. The hernia bulge may darken or turn red or purple. Other symptoms include sudden pain that worsens in a short period of time, fever and a rapid heart rate. A strangulated groin hernia requires immediate medical care, and it can become life-threatening if left untreated.
