Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal Hernia Research

An inguinal hernia is a break in the abdominal wall. It is caused by a weakness in the muscles and tendons that contain the intestines. This is identified as a lump on the groin or abdominal wall. Hernias most commonly develop in the groin since there is a natural weakness in this area because of lack of muscle coverage there.

There is no cure or repair for a hernia other than surgery. Surgery may be recommended by your doctor depending on the size of the hernia and the amount of discomfort it creates.

When a hernia requires surgery, there are many different procedures that may be used depending upon the specific type of hernia, its size and location. The surgery may sew together the muscles and tissues in the hole, but this is not as good as the technique that closes the hernia hole with a permanent mesh of nylon or plastic. Because the mesh is permanent material, it will become a part of the normal body's structure when sewn to the muscle and surrounding structure. The first technique places a great strain on the area and this has caused the recurrence of the hernia in many cases.

Sometimes a groin strain or torn muscle may be mistaken for a hernia. Under a doctor's care, the condition can be diagnosed for the most effective treatment. If it is not a hernia, it can be healed without surgery so it is important to have the correct diagnosis.

I have a personal experience with two hernias: one on the left side of my groin and the other on the right side. Surgery was performed on both during the last four years. Two different surgery procedures were used. On the left side, the surgeon used mesh. On the right side, the surgeon stitched the surrounding tissues together. The left side (mesh) surgery was perfectly successful, but the right side (stitched tissue) surgery was unsuccessful, since the hernia returned within about three months of the surgery.

I could have additional surgery on the right side, but since it is not terribly uncomfortable, I have decided not to do so. In addition, just recently I noticed an ad on the internet for a brief that was similar to Jockey underpants except that it had elastic material overall. Also, it had an insert that pushed in at the spot of the hernia. I have tried this for about a month and it has been a great help by keeping the hernia in place during activity and particularly during vigorous exercise.

I am 92 years old and do not plan to do anything to repair this one unless some complications develop. I write all the articles on this website that do not indicate an author's name. I take no medication, only food supplements. I go through a vigorous exercise program every morning and as long as nothing serious develops on the hernia I will leave it alone. This type of treatment might work if you have a hernia that is not causing problems. This will not cure the hernia; it will only protect you from possible complications. Before considering these types of treatment consult with your doctor.

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