An inguinal hernia often shows as a lump when the person stands or strains. The lump may go away when the patient lies down. Straining may cause a sharp, steady pain. With a small hernia the affected area may simply appear full. An examiner can feel the pressure of a hernia when the patient coughs.
Surgery can repair most inguinal hernias in a short and simple operation.
Repair of a hernia is considered to be minor surgery and is used to close up the hole. The surgeon makes a small cut and pushes the lining of the abdomen and the intestine back to its normal position. The surgeon then closes the hole and reinforces the weakened muscle. A rare but serious problem is a strangulated hernia. Gangrene may develop.