Hernias are about five times more common in men than they are in women, as a result of the natural characteristics of the male anatomy. There are a variety of types of hernias that are found in men, with the most common type being the inguinal hernia. A male hernia can come with a range of symptoms and different causes. The good news is that once properly diagnosed, hernias are usually easily treatable. This is only possible if brought to the attention of hernia experts like those at the Hernia Surgery Los Angeles in a timely manner. Hernia symptoms should never be ignored.
Nearly 800,000 Americans seek treatment for hernias each year, although experts have found a large number of individuals avoid seeking treatment for a variety of reasons. Sometimes men will either ignore the symptoms, improperly self-diagnose, or simply don’t visit the doctor. However, leaving a hernia untreated can be dangerous and could lead to severe health implications. It’s important to know the warning signs and symptoms of a hernia and to seek expert medical attention right away if a hernia is suspected.
What Causes Male Hernias?
There are two main reasons why hernias are more common in men than they are women. The first is anatomical. When men are developing, the testes are formed in the abdominal region before transferring into the scrotum. Naturally, this leaves a weak spot in the abdominal wall that can become vulnerable to developing a hernia. The second is physical exertion. A good portion of the time, hernias develop due to outside physical straining or prolonged exertion. Since men are more likely to have physically demanding jobs, or practice heavy weight-lifting, they have higher odds of developing a hernia than women.
Hernias can occur for a variety of reasons:
- Congenital reasons – Some men may have a predisposition for developing hernias. This means if you have a family history of hernias, it may be a congenital defect of the abdominal wall. Some people are born with weak abdominal walls that increase their chances of developing a hernia at some point in their lifetime.
- Physical stress and strain – These are known to commonly cause hernias in men. Improperly lifting heavy objects can put excess pressure on certain tissues and cause them to rupture. The same goes for daily, repetitive physical exertion. It’s not uncommon for a hernia to occur during heavy weight lifting exercises.
- Physical state – Men who are obese have a greater likelihood of getting a hernia. The excess weight causes increased pressure and strain on abdominal muscles and tissues which can result in a hernia. Also, if you are out of shape and have weak core muscles, you can experience a rupture during physical exertion.
- Smoking – If you are a smoker, then you are more likely of developing an abdominal hernia over a non-smoker. The nicotine from tobacco works to weaken the abdominal wall, making it easier for a rupture to occur. Also, lung irritation from smoking and the strain from frequent coughing also increase a smoker’s chance of getting a hernia.
The inguinal hernia is also known as a scrotal or testicular hernia, and is the most common type of hernia in men. With an inguinal hernia, the intestines or bladder protrude through an opening in the lower abdomen into the groin region. It is most common in men due to the natural weakness in the abdominal wall from the testes dropping.
With an inguinal hernia, you may notice a bulge or lump in the area where your thigh and groin meet. This area is called the inguinal crease. Sometimes the hernia may cause the protruding organ to enter the scrotum. This can be very noticeable and will usually cause pain and swelling. Other symptoms may include pain when lifting heavy objects, bending over, or when you cough. Surgery is required to repair an inguinal hernia. The physicians at Hernia Surgery Los Angeles are experts at diagnosing and repairing this common form of hernia.
Signs of a Male Hernia
Hernias can develop slowly over time or in an instant. They may cause you severe pain, no pain at all, or even just a strange sensation in the abdominal region. Hernias are likely to form some sort of lump or protrusion that may fluctuate in size during certain activities or positions. With the inguinal hernia being the most common, pain or discomfort in the groin region along with a possible lump is a telltale sign that you’ve developed a hernia. Remember that not all hernias are obvious, and it’s important to take every precaution when you may suspect something isn’t right. It’s essential to not make the mistake of avoiding medical attention when you could have a hernia.
Hernias are common, treatable conditions, but can have devastating effects if left untreated. Only the world-renowned physicians at Hernia Surgery Los Angeles can provide the very best in hernia diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect you may have a hernia, call to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Contact a Hernia Expert in Los Angeles Today
The expert team at Hernia Surgery Los Angeles can provide the very best, cutting-edge hernia treatment. Our techniques and procedures are second to none and we strive to provide only the very best in hernia care in Los Angeles. If you think you have the symptoms of a hernia, contact our outpatient center today. We have a world-class team of general surgeons as well as specialists in colorectal, thoracic, and plastic surgery standing by. You can schedule an appointment by calling (888) 418-2082 or by filling our our online contact form.
Next, learn about the different types of hernias.