Inguinal Hernia Vs. Ventral Hernia

Inguinal hernias are protrusions in the lower abdominal wall. The protrusions are usually soft tissue from the intestines protruding through the inguinal wall. Ventral hernias are also protrusions of the abdomen. They are from internal organs pushing through to a weak spot in the abdominal wall.

Inguinal Symptoms

• Symptoms of inguinal hernia include groin pain and discomfort when straining, a bulge on either side of the pubic bone, scrotum swelling around testicles, and a heavy or dragging feeling in the groin.

Ventral Symptoms

• Ventral hernia symptoms include an abdominal bulge, nausea, vomiting, being unable to have bowel movements, tenderness, pain and discomfort when straining.

Causes

• Ventral hernias are caused by thinned or stretched out scar tissue which weakens the abdominal wall. Inguinal hernias may be caused by abdominal pressure or a pre-existing abdominal wall weakness.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors for both inguinal and ventral hernias include obesity and pregnancy. Inguinal hernia risk factors can also include chronic cough and constipation, premature birth, and a family history of hernias.

Treatment

• Ventral hernia patients may wear a belt, or truss, to prevent the hernia from bulging outward, or they may have hernia repair surgery. Inguinal hernia patients must have surgery to repair the hernia, and relieve discomfort.