Hernias are the result of weakness in the muscles in the abdominal walls. This causes pieces of abdominal fat or small intestine to push through the wall of the abdomen. Inguinal hernias, also known as groin hernias, can sometimes occur on both sides of the body, resulting in a bilateral hernia.
Groin Lump
One of the most common symptoms of a bilateral hernia is a lump which appears in the groin. Because bilateral hernias occur on both sides of the body, they can result in bulges appearing on both sides of the body as defined by the line that separates the right and left portions of the groin. The bulges will typically disappear if pressure is put on them, the General Surgery Practice of New Jersey explains. In men, a bilateral hernia can force its way into the scrotum, resulting in scrotal enlargement. Bilateral inguinal hernias can also cause the scrotum to feel heavy, according to the Penn State Medical Center.
Pain
Bilateral inguinal hernias can cause pain or discomfort around the hernia, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders explains. This pain may be particularly severe during physical exertion, such as lifting a heavy object.
Intestinal Trapping
Bilateral hernias can cause portions of the intestines to become trapped within the hernia sack, preventing the intestine from moving normally. This can lead to a condition known as an incarcerated hernia, which can cause swelling of the abdomen. An incarcerated hernia may also pinch off a portion of the intestine, leading to vomiting and an inability to have a bowel movement.
Intestinal Strangulation
Bilateral inguinal hernias may also cut off the blood supply to part of the intestines, resulting in a strangulated hernia. This loss of blood supply causes the affected portion of the intestines to rapidly run out of oxygen. This can lead to sharp pain that suddenly gets worse, as well as a very rapid heart rate and a fever. A strangulated hernia will also become red and swollen, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders says.
