Hernia symptoms may be similar for both sexes depending on the type of hernia the individual has, but men often have specific signs of a hernia they find, particularly if it is in the groin or scrotum. Men are more likely to have an inherent weakness along the inguinal canal because of the way males develop before birth. That’s why, even children males are far more common than women to develop a hernia.

As babies, the testicles within the abdomen move down the inguinal canal into the scrotum, at which poin the inguinal canal closes almost completely, leaving only enough room for the spermatic cord to pass through. However, the canal doesn’t always close properly, leaving a weakened area. For female babies, there’s far less chance that the inguinal canal wouldn’t close after birth. However, there are some rare instances of hernias, such as femoral hernias, that are more common in women.

Hernias must be treated with hernia surgery, because left untreated; they can lead to very serious problems such as incarceration or strangulation of the intestines, which necessitate emergency surgery. Fortunately, those who are experiencing hernias have an expert at hand in board-certified general surgeon Dr. Shirin Towfigh, a highly-experienced hernia specialist in Los Angeles.

SYMPTOMS OF HERNIA IN MEN

Hernia symptoms in men may include a bulge in the groin or scrotum, most commonly. This happens because the internal organs, connective tissues and fat protrude through a hole in the abdominal wall. Hernias are 8 to 20 times more common in men than women, although they can occur in both sexes. The inguinal hernia is the most common in men, which happens in the groin area.

Here are a list of the most common types of hernias, and their hernia symptoms in men, according to type:

GROIN HERNIAS

Three-quarters of hernias occur in the groin area, and of those, most affect men. Fortunately, Dr. Shirin Towfigh of the Beverly Hills Hernia Center can help men overcome their hernia discomfort through hernia repair surgery. One of the most common symptoms is a bulge in the groin area or the scrotum, although the individual may or may not experience any pain from the hernia. Other symptoms that may occur include sudden pain, or nausea/vomiting, as well as discomfort.

INGUINAL HERNIA SYMPTOMS IN MEN

Inguinal hernias are the most common hernia that occurs in men, and men are 20 times more likely to develop one. Indirect inguinal hernias involve a hole in the body that becomes large enough for the internal organs and tissues to protrude through it. These may or may not present with groin pain.

DIRECT INGUINAL HERNIAS

A direct hernia usually affects older patients, and is more common in men than women. These must be treated with urgency, as they are more likely to become strangulated. These may or may not present with groin pain.

FEMORAL HERNIAS

These affect men less often than women, but are very important to treat because they pose a high threat for trapping the intestines and requiring immediate surgery. Nearly one-third of all femoral hernia repairs are done on an emergency basis, because patients experience no symptoms.

ABDOMINAL HERNIA SYMPTOMS IN MEN

The most common hernias develop that in the abdomen is the sliding hiatus hernia (hiatal hernia).

HIATAL HERNIA SYMPTOMS IN MEN

Symptoms in men may not present at all, with no pain or discomfort. However, if men experience symptoms, they include dull pains in the chest, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and discomfort in the lower esophagus.

UMBILICAL HERNIA SYMPTOMS IN MEN

This most common type of abdominal hernia is found at the navel, or belly button area. These hernias are more common in babies and young children.

HERNIA RISK FACTORS

Men can avoid suffering from hernia by staying healthy, and properly stretching before or after periods of strenuous activity. This is because obesity, chronic constipation and intense, physical labor can increase the risk of inguinal hernia. Certain medical conditions and a history of hernias can also lead to an increased risk of hernia.