Inguinal Hernias
Inguinal hernias are a much more common type to develop in the groin area, and they occur more often in men. The inguinal canal is responsible for creating a passageway for reproductive parts in both genders. Male inguinal canals tend to be bigger and to have larger areas of weakness than the inguinal canals of women do. Inguinal hernias occur at the base of the abdomen around the groin and account for almost three quarters of hernias. As with so many of the other types, these hernias can be hard to catch without symptoms and hold the potential to be extremely dangerous if complications ensue.
Inguinal hernias are categorized as direct or indirect. A direct inguinal hernia occurs more often in adults and is suspected to be the result of muscles growing weaker with age, making it easier for hernia to occur. An indirect inguinal hernia, on the other hand, is more common at birth. Although it can occur at any age, it is most likely to happen when the inguinal canal has not yet fully developed. “Direct” refers to the direct result of muscles weakened over time, while “indirect” refers to a natural weakness.
Again, a small bulge near the groin may be indicative of an inguinal hernia. Don’t be surprised if this bulge disappears upon lying down, as whatever has pushed through the abdominal muscle falls backwards, out of sight. Sometimes you may be able to push the bulge back in, or apply an ice pack to reduce swelling sufficiently to do so. Some pain or discomfort may accompany this bulge, particularly when performing activities that put stress on the area, like coughing or heavy lifting. Even if no pain is present the area may feel odd. In males, the testicles may become swollen or painful if the protrusion disrupts the scrotum.
Did you know...
- Have you ever told your husband something and he promptly forgets it? It's not his fault, actually. It really is because he's a man. The hippocampus (the part of the brain that deals with memory) begins to shrink with age faster in men than it does in women. That's why you can remember everything, and he can't!
- Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!
- Are you currently or often tired? As contradictory as it may sound, one of the best things you can do is exercise! It gives you more energy by improving your blood flow and increasing your oxygen throughout your body. You don't need to do much; a brisk walk is all it takes!
- A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
- Do you know what the strongest muscle in your body is? No, it’s not your biceps or your thighs. It’s actually in your head. The masseter is a muscle in the jaw that is used when chewing. When all of the muscles of the jaw work together, they can exert a force as strong as 200 pounds on the molars. That’s some serious pressure.