What Causes Inguinal Hernias and How Are They Treated?

An inguinal hernia occurs when a portion of tissue—such as intestine or abdominal fat—pushes through a weakened spot in the lower abdominal wall near the groin, an area known as the inguinal canal. While this is a common condition, especially among men, it can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, may lead to serious complications.

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, our board-certified surgeons have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating inguinal hernias. Our team understands that factors like aging, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, obesity, or straining during bowel movements can all contribute to the development of a hernia by increasing pressure on a weakened abdominal wall. Whether your hernia is congenital (present from birth) or acquired over time, our specialists are equipped to provide a personalized evaluation and management plan.

Typical symptoms of an inguinal hernia include a visible bulge in the groin or scrotum—often more noticeable when standing, coughing, or lifting heavy objects—and may be accompanied by pain or discomfort. Early assessment is crucial, as untreated hernias can become trapped (incarcerated) or lose their blood supply (strangulated), leading to life-threatening complications.

Inguinal hernias is a common condition that occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, pushes through a weakened spot in the lower abdominal wall, often into the inguinal canal in the groin. The main cause of an inguinal hernia is a weakness in the muscles and connective tissue of the abdominal wall. This weakness may be present from birth (a congenital defect due to incomplete closure of the abdominal lining) or it may develop over time as a result of aging, repetitive strain, or injury.

Certain factors can increase the pressure inside the abdomen and contribute to the development of a hernia. These include chronic coughing, heavy lifting, straining during bowel movements or urination, obesity, and pregnancy. Additionally, individuals with a family history of hernias or certain connective tissue disorders may be at higher risk.

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, we frequently diagnose and treat inguinal hernias—a common condition that often presents as a noticeable bulge or swelling in the groin area. This bulge typically becomes more evident when standing, coughing, or straining, and many patients report discomfort or pain at the site, especially during physical activity or when lifting heavy objects. The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp sensation, and some individuals also describe a feeling of heaviness, pressure, or weakness in the groin.

In men, the hernia may extend into the scrotum, leading to additional swelling or pain. The size of the bulge often fluctuates, usually decreasing or disappearing when lying down and reappearing with movement or exertion. While some inguinal hernias are painless and only cause a visible lump, others may be accompanied by tenderness, or a burning or gurgling sensation.

It’s important to recognize when hernia symptoms indicate a more serious problem. If an inguinal hernia becomes trapped (incarcerated) or the blood supply is compromised (strangulated), symptoms can worsen and may include severe pain, redness, nausea, vomiting, and the inability to push the bulge back in. These are medical emergencies that require immediate attention.

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, our board-certified specialists provide comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans for patients with inguinal hernias. The choice of treatment depends on the size of the hernia, the severity of symptoms, and each patient’s overall health.

For small hernias that cause little or no discomfort, our surgeons may recommend a watchful waiting approach. This involves carefully monitoring your condition for any changes, ensuring timely intervention if symptoms worsen. However, it is important to note that inguinal hernias do not resolve on their own, and most patients will eventually need surgical repair to prevent complications.

Surgical Expertise
Phoenix Unified Surgeons offers both open and minimally invasive (laparoscopic) hernia repair, utilizing the latest techniques and technology:

• Open Hernia Repair: Our surgeons make an incision in the groin area to gently reposition the herniated tissue and reinforce the abdominal wall, often using a synthetic mesh to minimize the risk of recurrence.

• Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: Using small incisions and a specialized camera, our team can repair the hernia with less post-operative pain and faster recovery times for eligible patients. Laparoscopic surgery may not be suitable for everyone, and our surgeons will discuss your options based on your unique health profile.

Non-Surgical Approaches
For patients who are not candidates for surgery due to other medical conditions, temporary relief may be achieved with supportive trusses or binders. However, these do not provide a cure and are not recommended as a long-term solution.

At Phoenix Unified Surgeons, our board-certified surgical team provides expert evaluation and diagnosis of inguinal hernias. Diagnosis generally starts with a thorough physical examination at our Phoenix office. Our surgeons may ask you to stand or cough to better assess the hernia. When necessary, advanced imaging such as ultrasound or CT scans can be performed to confirm the diagnosis or check for complications.

Our experienced surgeons at Phoenix Unified Surgeons offer individualized treatment plans based on the size of your hernia, your symptoms, and your overall health. While some small, asymptomatic hernias may simply be monitored, surgery is usually recommended for symptomatic or enlarging hernias to prevent complications. 

Choosing Phoenix Unified Surgeons means entrusting your care to a team that prioritizes safety, expertise, and the latest surgical techniques. Our surgeons are board-certified—an assurance of their advanced training, dedication to ongoing education, and commitment to delivering outstanding patient outcomes. We are proud to serve the Phoenix community, providing comprehensive hernia care from evaluation through recovery.

If you’ve noticed a new bulge in your groin or are experiencing persistent discomfort, don’t wait—early evaluation is key to preventing complications. Contact Phoenix Unified Surgeons in Phoenix, AZ, to schedule your consultation with a trusted, board-certified surgeon. We’re here to help you return to your normal activities and restore your quality of life with safe, effective hernia treatment. We are conveniently located at 20333 N 19th Avenue, Ste 230 Phoenix, AZ 85027. We serve patients from Phoenix AZ, Sun City AZ, Peoria AZ, Surprise AZ, Glendale AZ, Scottsdale AZ, and surrounding areas.