An inguinal hernia occurs when soft tissue – often part of the membrane lining the abdominal cavity or part of the intestine – protrudes through a weak point in the abdominal muscles. While some experience no inguinal hernia symptoms in men, the bulge that results can also be painful, particularly when you cough, bend over or lift a heavy object. Other inguinal hernia symptoms in men might include:

• A bulge in the area on either side of the pubic bone
• A burning, gurgling or aching sensation at the bulge
• Pain or discomfort in the groin, especially when bending over, coughing or lifting
• A heavy or dragging sensation in the groin
• Weakness or pressure in the groin
• Occasional pain and swelling around the testicles when the protruding intestine descends into the scrotum

While it’s true that an inguinal hernia is not usually particularly dangerous on its own, it can lead to life-threatening complications. That’s why Dr. Towfigh at the Beverly Hills Hernia Center will often recommend surgery to fix an inguinal hernia that’s painful or becoming larger. Fortunately, the renowned hernia expert has a great deal of experience performing hernia surgery for patients throughout the Western United States – with exceptional results.

While some inguinal hernias appear to have no apparent cause, or come about due to hereditary reasons, the acclaimed hernia surgeon Dr. Towfigh explains that hernia, and their resulting hernia symptoms in men can occur as a result of:

• Increased pressure within the abdomen
• A pre-existing weak spot in the abdominal wall
• A combination of increased pressure within the abdomen and a pre-existing weak spot in the abdomen wall
• Straining during bowel movements or urination
• Heavy lifting
• Fluid in the abdomen
• Excess weight
• Chronic coughing or sneezing

Of course, some of these causes are out of one’s control, but Dr. Towfigh points out that symptoms of hernia in men can be avoided by certain healthy lifestyle choices. At the Beverly Hills Hernia Center, the top hernia expert will happily consult with patients about how they can avoid the pain and discomfort caused by inguinal or strangulated hernia symptoms in the future.

Among inguinal hernia symptoms in men, complications such as strangulation are among the most serious. When an incarcerated hernia – one in which a loop of intestine becomes trapped in the weak point of the abdominal wall – cuts off blood flow to part of the intestine, strangulation occurs. This can be life threatening, and often requires immediate surgery from a skilled hernia surgeon like Dr. Towfigh.

Aside from inguinal hernias, other types of hernia can affect men and women as well. Hernias in women are less common, but certain types like femoral hernias are not altogether uncommon among women. While these hernias tend to be smaller, they are also often misdiagnosed, leading to problems among those who fail to have the issue treated within a reasonable length of time. Meanwhile, umbilical hernia symptoms in men are common among senior citizens, though they also occur in infants.

If you’re suffering from inguinal or hiatal hernia symptoms in men, or any number of other related issues, contact Dr. Towfigh at the Beverly Hills Hernia Center today for treatment and care from a truly dedicated medical professional. For further information on hernia treatment with Dr. Towfigh and the Beverly Hills Hernia Center, please 310-693-6096 or visit our contact page.