A condition in which a loop of intestine enters the inguinal canal, a tubular passage through the lower layers of the abdominal wall. A hernia occurs when part of an organ protrudes through a weak point or tear in the thin muscular wall that holds the abdominal organs in place. In men, a hernia can develop at the point where the spermatic cord passes out of the abdomen into the scrotum. A direct inguinal hernia creates a bulge in the groin area, and an indirect hernia descends into the scrotum.
Inguinal hernias occur less often in women than men.
In children, persistent crying may be the only other sign besides a mass. The mass may increase in size when coughing, bending, lifting, or straining. An inguinal hernia can often be pushed back into the abdominal cavity. However, if it cannot be forced back through the abdominal wall, the herniated bowel may become trapped in the inguinal ring or strangulated. Without treatment, the strangulated loop of intestine dies, because its blood supply is compromised.