What are the signs and symptoms of an inguinal (groin) hernia?

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Last updated: March 18, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

Inguinal hernias typically present with a visible bulge in the groin area, groin pain, a burning or aching sensation, and pain or discomfort during physical activities, as reported in the most recent study 1. The signs and symptoms of an inguinal hernia can vary, but common symptoms include:

  • A feeling of pressure or weakness in the groin
  • A burning or aching sensation at the bulge site
  • Pain or discomfort during physical activities, coughing, or bending over
  • Men may experience pain and swelling around the testicles when the hernia descends into the scrotum
  • The hernia may be reducible, meaning it can be pushed back into the abdomen, or irreducible if it becomes stuck Severe symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include:
  • Sudden, intense pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Inability to pass gas or have bowel movements, which may indicate a strangulated hernia where blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off, as noted in 2 and 3. Inguinal hernias occur when abdominal contents protrude through a weakness in the abdominal wall, often at the inguinal canal, and are more common in men due to anatomical differences, as discussed in 4 and 5. Risk factors include:
  • Chronic coughing
  • Heavy lifting
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Family history It is essential to note that while watchful waiting may be an acceptable option for asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic inguinal hernias, as suggested in 1, severe symptoms require prompt medical attention to prevent complications.

References

Research

Inguinal hernias: diagnosis and management.

American family physician, 2013

Research

Inguinal Hernias: Diagnosis and Management.

American family physician, 2020

Research

[Inguinal hernia - review].

Laeknabladid, 2019

Research

Contemporary imaging of inguinal hernia and pain.

The British journal of radiology, 2022

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