Inguinal Hernia: Symptoms, Causes & When Surgery Is Needed

What Is an Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia is a protrusion of abdominal contents (usually fat or intestine) through a weakness in the abdominal wall in the groin region. It appears as a bulge that may cause pain or discomfort, especially during physical activity. Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia, affecting approximately 27% of men and 3% of women during their lifetime.

The abdominal wall is the layer of tissue between your skin and your abdominal organs. It consists of several layers including the peritoneum (innermost lining), fat layers, muscle layers, and subcutaneous fat beneath the skin. In a hernia, the peritoneum and abdominal contents push through a weakness in the muscle layer, forming what is called a hernia sac beneath the skin.

The groin (inguinal region) is one of the most common sites for hernias to develop because of natural weaknesses in this area. The inguinal canal—a passage through the abdominal wall—contains the spermatic cord in men and the round ligament in women. This canal creates a potential weak point where hernias can form.

Inguinal hernias can occur on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) of the groin. The hernia contents can move in and out through the opening in the abdominal wall, which is why the bulge may appear and disappear. Understanding the anatomy helps explain why certain activities that increase abdominal pressure—like coughing, lifting, or straining—can make the hernia more noticeable.

Types of Inguinal Hernias

There are two main types of inguinal hernias, classified by where they occur in relation to the inguinal canal. Understanding the type helps surgeons plan the most appropriate repair technique.

Indirect inguinal hernia is the most common type, accounting for about 60-70% of all inguinal hernias. In this type, the hernia follows the path of the inguinal canal—the same route that the testicles take during fetal development as they descend from the abdomen into the scrotum. This type is congenital (present from birth) in children and can also develop in adults. In men, the hernia can extend into the scrotum.

Direct inguinal hernia occurs when tissue pushes directly through a weak spot in the posterior wall of the inguinal canal (an area called Hesselbach's triangle). This type is almost always acquired (develops over time) due to weakening of the abdominal wall and is more common in older adults. Direct hernias rarely extend into the scrotum and are more likely to be bilateral (occurring on both sides).

Incarcerated and Strangulated Hernias

When hernia contents become trapped and cannot be pushed back into the abdomen, this is called an incarcerated hernia. The trapped contents cause swelling that further tightens the opening, creating a cycle that prevents reduction. An incarcerated hernia causes continuous pain and the bulge remains visible regardless of position.

A strangulated hernia is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off. Without blood flow, the tissue begins to die (become gangrenous), which can lead to serious infection, sepsis, and death if not treated immediately. Strangulation can occur in both adults and children and represents the most serious complication of an inguinal hernia.

Related Types of Groin Hernias

Besides inguinal hernias, there are other types of hernias that can occur in or near the groin area. A femoral hernia occurs just below the inguinal ligament, in the femoral canal. These are more common in women and have a higher risk of strangulation. A scrotal hernia is when an inguinal hernia extends down into the scrotum. A hydrocele is not a hernia but a collection of fluid around the testicle that can sometimes occur together with a hernia.

What Are the Symptoms of an Inguinal Hernia?

The main symptoms of an inguinal hernia include a visible bulge in the groin or scrotum that appears when standing or straining, aching or burning pain at the bulge, a heavy or dragging sensation, and discomfort that worsens with activity. Some people have hernias without any symptoms, while others experience significant pain.

Both adults and children can have an inguinal hernia without experiencing any noticeable symptoms. The hernia may be discovered incidentally during a routine physical examination or an imaging study performed for another reason. However, most people with inguinal hernias will eventually notice some signs of the condition.

The hallmark symptom of an inguinal hernia is a visible or palpable bulge in the groin area. This bulge typically has several characteristic features that help distinguish it from other conditions. The bulge usually appears when you are standing, coughing, straining, or lifting something heavy—activities that increase pressure inside the abdomen. When you lie down and relax, the bulge may disappear or become smaller as the hernia contents slide back into the abdomen.

The bulge is typically soft and may feel like a small balloon or round mass under the skin. You can often push the bulge back in (this is called a "reducible" hernia), though it will reappear when you stand up or strain again. The size of the bulge can vary significantly—from barely noticeable to quite large—and tends to increase over time as the hernia opening gradually widens.

Common Symptoms in Adults

Adults with inguinal hernias commonly experience a range of symptoms beyond the visible bulge. Pain or discomfort in the groin is very common and can manifest in several ways. You might feel a dull aching sensation that persists throughout the day, a sharp pain when coughing or lifting, or a burning sensation at the site of the bulge. The pain often worsens as the day progresses and improves with rest.

Many people describe a heavy or dragging sensation in the groin, as if something is pulling down. This feeling can be particularly noticeable after prolonged standing or physical activity. Some experience weakness or pressure in the groin area, even when the bulge is not visible.

In men, the hernia can extend into the scrotum, causing swelling, pain, and a sensation of heaviness in the scrotal area. This can sometimes be mistaken for testicular problems. The affected testicle may appear larger due to the hernia contents, and there may be discomfort during sexual activity.

Symptoms in Children

Recognizing an inguinal hernia in children, especially infants, requires careful observation since young children cannot describe their symptoms. Parents may notice a bulge or swelling in the groin area, particularly when the child is crying, coughing, or straining during a bowel movement. The swelling may disappear when the child is calm or sleeping.

In infant boys, the hernia may cause visible swelling in the scrotum. This can be distinguished from a hydrocele (fluid around the testicle) because a hernia bulge typically changes size with activity, while a hydrocele remains relatively constant. Infants with hernias may be fussier than usual, especially during feeding or when having a bowel movement.

Children with incarcerated or strangulated hernias will show signs of distress: inconsolable crying, refusing to eat, vomiting, and a tense, firm bulge that cannot be reduced. The child may appear lethargic or unresponsive. These are emergency signs requiring immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of Incarcerated Hernia

When a hernia becomes incarcerated (trapped), the symptoms change dramatically. The bulge becomes firm and tender and cannot be pushed back into the abdomen. There is often severe, constant pain at the hernia site that does not improve with rest or position changes. The area may be red, warm, or swollen.

If the incarceration involves intestine, you may develop symptoms of bowel obstruction: abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting (which may become fecal-smelling in severe cases), inability to pass gas or stool, and crampy abdominal pain. These symptoms indicate that the intestine is blocked and cannot function normally.

What Causes Inguinal Hernias?

Inguinal hernias develop due to a combination of a weak area in the abdominal wall and increased pressure from within the abdomen. In children, the weakness is congenital (present from birth) when the inguinal canal fails to close properly. In adults, the abdominal wall weakens over time due to aging, and factors like heavy lifting, chronic cough, obesity, and straining contribute to hernia formation.

Understanding what causes inguinal hernias requires looking at both the structural weakness that allows the hernia to form and the forces that push tissue through that weakness. The causes differ somewhat between children and adults, though the end result—a protrusion through the abdominal wall—is the same.

Causes in Children (Congenital Hernias)

In children, particularly boys, inguinal hernias are almost always congenital, meaning the underlying defect is present from birth even if the hernia is not immediately apparent. During fetal development, the testicles form inside the abdomen and gradually descend through the inguinal canal into the scrotum during the last months of pregnancy. As they descend, they are accompanied by a portion of the peritoneum (abdominal lining) called the processus vaginalis.

Normally, this processus vaginalis closes completely before or shortly after birth, sealing off the inguinal canal. However, if it fails to close properly, it leaves an open pathway from the abdomen to the groin or scrotum. This persistent opening allows abdominal contents to herniate through, creating an indirect inguinal hernia. The hernia may not become apparent until months or years later when the child's activity increases abdominal pressure.

Girls also have an inguinal canal (through which the round ligament passes), and the same failure of closure can occur, though it is much less common. When girls develop inguinal hernias, there is a higher risk that the ovary may be contained within the hernia sac.

Premature infants have a significantly higher rate of inguinal hernias because the processus vaginalis has less time to close before birth. Approximately 30% of premature infants weighing less than 1000 grams will develop an inguinal hernia.

Causes in Adults (Acquired Hernias)

In adults, inguinal hernias typically develop over time due to a combination of weakening abdominal wall tissues and increased intra-abdominal pressure. Unlike childhood hernias, which are congenital, adult hernias are usually acquired through the cumulative effects of aging, strain, and other factors.

The abdominal wall naturally weakens with age as collagen and connective tissue lose their strength and elasticity. This is a normal part of aging, but certain factors can accelerate the process or create additional weakness. Genetics plays a significant role—people with inherited connective tissue disorders or a family history of hernias are at increased risk.

Factors that increase abdominal pressure and contribute to hernia formation include:

• Heavy lifting: Repeated lifting of heavy objects, especially with improper technique, creates significant intra-abdominal pressure
• Chronic cough: Conditions like chronic bronchitis, COPD, or smoking-related cough repeatedly stress the abdominal wall
• Constipation: Straining during bowel movements increases pressure and weakens tissues over time
• Obesity: Excess body weight increases baseline abdominal pressure and weakens supporting tissues
• Pregnancy: Multiple pregnancies can weaken the abdominal wall (though inguinal hernias are less common in women)
• Ascites: Fluid accumulation in the abdomen increases pressure
• Prostate enlargement: Straining to urinate can contribute to hernia formation in men

Risk Factors for Inguinal Hernia

Several factors increase your risk of developing an inguinal hernia. Being male is the strongest risk factor—men are 8-10 times more likely than women to develop inguinal hernias. This is due to the inherent weakness created by the descent of the testicles through the inguinal canal.

Family history is another important risk factor. If close relatives have had inguinal hernias, you have a higher risk due to inherited characteristics of connective tissue strength. Smoking weakens connective tissue throughout the body and is associated with higher hernia rates as well as higher recurrence rates after repair.

Previous hernia—if you have had an inguinal hernia on one side, you have an increased risk of developing one on the other side. Previous abdominal surgery can also increase risk by creating scar tissue that weakens the abdominal wall.

How Is an Inguinal Hernia Diagnosed?

Inguinal hernias are usually diagnosed through a physical examination where the doctor looks and feels for a bulge in the groin while you stand, cough, or bear down. In most cases, no imaging tests are needed. Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used when the diagnosis is uncertain or to plan surgery for complex cases.

The diagnosis of an inguinal hernia typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms: when you first noticed the bulge, what makes it worse or better, whether you have pain, and whether the bulge can be pushed back in. They will also ask about your medical history, previous surgeries, family history of hernias, occupation, and activities that might involve heavy lifting.

The physical examination is the most important diagnostic tool for inguinal hernias. You will be asked to stand (hernias are often not visible when lying down) while the doctor visually inspects both sides of your groin for any bulge or asymmetry. The doctor will then feel (palpate) the groin area, often asking you to cough or bear down (Valsalva maneuver) to increase abdominal pressure and make the hernia more apparent.

In men, the doctor may insert a finger into the inguinal canal through the scrotum (digital examination) to feel for a hernia impulse when you cough. This helps determine the type of hernia (direct vs. indirect) and its size. In women, the groin is examined externally. The doctor will also check the other side, as bilateral hernias are common.

Imaging Studies

In most cases, imaging tests are not necessary to diagnose an inguinal hernia because the physical examination provides sufficient information. However, imaging may be helpful in certain situations.

Ultrasound is often the first imaging test used when the diagnosis is uncertain, such as when symptoms are present but no bulge can be found, when the bulge is small and intermittent, or to differentiate between a hernia and other groin masses (lymph nodes, lipomas, hydroceles). Ultrasound is non-invasive, does not use radiation, and can show the hernia in real-time during coughing or straining.

CT scan (computed tomography) provides detailed cross-sectional images and is particularly useful for complex or recurrent hernias, obstructed or strangulated hernias, patients with multiple previous surgeries, and pre-surgical planning for difficult cases. CT uses radiation and is typically reserved for more complex situations.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) offers excellent soft tissue detail without radiation and may be used for occult (hidden) hernias causing groin pain, evaluating athletes with groin pain, and situations where other imaging is inconclusive.

Herniography is a specialized X-ray examination where contrast dye is injected into the abdominal cavity to highlight hernias. It is rarely used today because ultrasound and CT provide similar information without the need for injection.

How Is an Inguinal Hernia Treated?

Surgery is the only treatment that can permanently repair an inguinal hernia. The two main surgical approaches are laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery and open surgery, both of which typically use mesh to reinforce the repair. Adults with minimal symptoms may choose watchful waiting, but children with inguinal hernias should always have surgery due to the high risk of complications.

Inguinal hernias do not heal on their own and cannot be fixed with medication, exercises, or external devices. The natural history of an untreated hernia is to gradually enlarge over time as the abdominal wall opening widens. While many hernias remain reducible and relatively asymptomatic for years, there is always a risk of incarceration and strangulation, which are surgical emergencies.

The decision about when to have surgery depends on several factors including the severity of symptoms, the risk of complications, your overall health, and your preferences. For most people with symptomatic inguinal hernias, elective surgical repair is recommended to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Watchful Waiting (Conservative Management)

For some adults with minimal or no symptoms (asymptomatic hernias), a strategy called "watchful waiting" may be appropriate. This approach involves monitoring the hernia over time rather than proceeding immediately to surgery. Regular follow-up visits track any changes in size or symptoms, and surgery is recommended if the hernia becomes symptomatic or enlarges significantly.

Research has shown that watchful waiting is generally safe for carefully selected patients. However, approximately 70% of men who initially choose watchful waiting will eventually require surgery due to worsening symptoms. The main advantage of watchful waiting is avoiding surgical risks in patients who may never develop significant symptoms.

Watchful waiting is NOT recommended for children, patients with femoral hernias (higher strangulation risk), patients with difficulty reducing the hernia, patients with symptoms affecting quality of life, or patients with work or activities that require heavy lifting.

Hernia Truss (Supportive Device)

A hernia truss is a supportive undergarment that applies pressure to the groin to keep the hernia reduced. While trusses do not repair the hernia, they may provide temporary symptom relief in patients who cannot or choose not to have surgery immediately. Trusses are sometimes prescribed for elderly patients with significant surgical risk or as a bridge to surgery.

However, trusses have significant limitations: they do not prevent hernia enlargement or complications, they can be uncomfortable and difficult to fit properly, they may cause skin irritation or pressure sores, and they need to be worn continuously. For these reasons, surgical repair is almost always the preferred treatment when medically feasible.

Surgical Repair Options

Surgery is the definitive treatment for inguinal hernias. Modern hernia repair techniques have excellent success rates (98-99%) with low recurrence rates (1-2%) when mesh is used. There are two main surgical approaches: open repair and laparoscopic (minimally invasive) repair.

Open hernia repair (Lichtenstein technique) is performed through a 3-4 inch incision in the groin. The surgeon identifies the hernia, pushes the contents back into the abdomen, and reinforces the weakened area with synthetic mesh. The mesh is sewn to the surrounding tissue to create a strong repair. Open repair can be done under local, regional (spinal), or general anesthesia.

Advantages of open repair include well-established technique with decades of data, suitable for all types of inguinal hernias, can be performed under local anesthesia in some patients, and lower equipment costs. Disadvantages include larger incision with more post-operative pain, longer recovery time compared to laparoscopic surgery, and more difficult to repair bilateral hernias simultaneously.

Laparoscopic hernia repair is performed through small incisions (usually 3 incisions of 5-10mm) using a camera and specialized instruments. There are two main laparoscopic techniques:

• TEP (Totally Extraperitoneal): The repair is done in the space between the abdominal wall muscles and the peritoneum, without entering the abdominal cavity
• TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal): The surgeon enters the abdominal cavity, creates a flap in the peritoneum, places the mesh, and closes the peritoneum over it

Advantages of laparoscopic repair include smaller incisions with less post-operative pain, faster recovery and return to normal activities, excellent for bilateral hernias (both sides can be repaired through the same incisions), and lower risk of chronic groin pain. Disadvantages include requires general anesthesia, longer operating time and higher costs, and steeper learning curve for surgeons.

Mesh vs. Non-Mesh Repair

Modern hernia repair almost always involves the use of synthetic mesh to reinforce the repair. Mesh repair (hernioplasty) has revolutionized hernia surgery by dramatically reducing recurrence rates from 10-15% with suture-only repair to just 1-2% with mesh.

The mesh acts as a scaffold that the body's tissue grows into, creating a strong, permanent repair. Various types of mesh are available, made from materials like polypropylene, polyester, or partially absorbable materials. Your surgeon will choose the appropriate mesh based on your specific situation.

Non-mesh repair (herniorrhaphy) using sutures alone may still be used in certain situations: children (whose tissues are strong and heal well), patients with mesh allergy or intolerance, certain types of small hernias, and emergency surgery for strangulated hernias with contamination.

Surgery in Children

Children with inguinal hernias should always have surgical repair—watchful waiting is not recommended. This is because children have a much higher risk of incarceration and strangulation compared to adults, and these complications can occur rapidly and unpredictably.

Pediatric hernia repair is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure is usually simpler than in adults because it typically involves closing the patent processus vaginalis rather than reinforcing weakened tissue. Mesh is generally not needed in children because their tissues are strong and heal well.

The timing of surgery depends on the child's age and symptoms. Premature infants may have surgery before hospital discharge, full-term infants typically have surgery within weeks to months of diagnosis, and older children are usually scheduled for elective repair at a convenient time. Incarcerated hernias in children are emergencies requiring immediate surgery.

When Should You See a Doctor?

See a doctor within 1-2 weeks if you notice a bulge in your groin, even if painless. Seek same-day care for increasing pain, difficulty reducing the hernia, or groin swelling. Call emergency services immediately for severe sudden pain, nausea/vomiting, a bulge that cannot be reduced and is discolored, or signs of bowel obstruction.

If you notice a bulge in your groin area that comes and goes or changes size with activity, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor for evaluation. Even if the bulge is not painful, it is important to have it examined to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Most inguinal hernias do not require emergency treatment, and elective repair can be scheduled at a convenient time.

However, certain symptoms require more urgent evaluation. Contact your doctor the same day or seek urgent care if the hernia is causing increasing pain, you are having difficulty pushing the bulge back in, the groin area is becoming more swollen, or you have symptoms that are interfering with your daily activities.

What Can You Do at Home?

While home measures cannot repair a hernia, you can manage mild symptoms by gently pushing the bulge back when it appears, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, using over-the-counter pain relievers, maintaining a healthy weight, and preventing constipation. These measures are temporary—surgery is the only definitive treatment.

If you have been diagnosed with an inguinal hernia and are awaiting surgery or have chosen watchful waiting, there are several things you can do at home to manage symptoms and reduce discomfort.

Reducing the Hernia

If your hernia is reducible (can be pushed back in), you can gently reduce it when it becomes bothersome. The best technique is to lie on your back with your knees bent, relax completely for a few minutes, and then use gentle, steady pressure with your hand—pushing from below the bulge upward toward your navel. The hernia often reduces more easily when you are lying down and relaxed.

Never force a hernia that does not reduce easily. If you experience pain when trying to reduce the hernia, or if the bulge remains firm and tender, stop attempting reduction and seek medical evaluation.

Pain Management

Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage discomfort from a hernia. Options include acetaminophen (paracetamol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. Follow package directions for dosing and talk to your doctor before using these medications long-term, especially if you have other medical conditions.

Applying ice wrapped in a cloth to the groin area can help reduce swelling and pain. Apply for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day as needed.

Lifestyle Modifications

Avoiding activities that aggravate your hernia can help minimize symptoms. Heavy lifting is the most common aggravating factor—avoid lifting heavy objects, and when you must lift, use proper technique (bend at the knees, keep the object close to your body, lift with your legs rather than your back). Avoid straining during bowel movements and treat any chronic cough promptly.

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the abdominal wall. If you are overweight, losing weight can help reduce symptoms and may improve surgical outcomes. Eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water helps prevent constipation and reduces straining.

Wearing supportive undergarments or a properly fitted hernia truss may provide some relief, though these do not prevent hernia enlargement or complications. A truss should be fitted by a healthcare professional to ensure proper size and position.

What Is Recovery Like After Hernia Surgery?

Most patients go home the same day as hernia surgery. Recovery involves managing post-operative pain, gradually returning to activities, and avoiding heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks. Laparoscopic surgery typically allows faster recovery (2-4 weeks) than open surgery (4-6 weeks). Complications are uncommon but can include infection, chronic pain, and recurrence.

Recovery from inguinal hernia surgery depends on the type of surgery performed, your overall health, and how well you follow post-operative instructions. Most patients are surprised at how quickly they recover, particularly after laparoscopic surgery.

Immediately After Surgery

Both open and laparoscopic hernia repairs are usually performed as outpatient (same-day) surgery. You will spend a few hours in the recovery area as the anesthesia wears off. The surgical team will ensure you can urinate, drink fluids, and walk before discharge. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first night.

Pain at the incision sites is normal and typically most intense in the first 2-3 days. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication and provide instructions on when and how to take it. Many patients find that over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen is sufficient after the first few days. Applying ice to the groin area can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

First Week After Surgery

During the first week, you should take it easy but remain mobile. Walking is encouraged from day one—it promotes circulation, prevents blood clots, and aids recovery. Start with short walks around your home and gradually increase distance as you feel able.

The surgical site may be bruised, swollen, or have minor bleeding—this is normal. Keep the incision clean and dry, and follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care. Most surgeons use dissolvable stitches or surgical glue that does not require removal. Swelling and bruising of the scrotum (in men) is common after inguinal hernia repair and resolves over 1-2 weeks.

You can shower 24-48 hours after surgery (or as instructed by your surgeon), but avoid soaking in baths, pools, or hot tubs until the incision is fully healed (usually 2 weeks). Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not put pressure on the surgical site.

Returning to Activities

Light activities (walking, light housework, driving short distances) can usually be resumed within the first week. Most patients can drive once they are no longer taking prescription pain medication and can perform an emergency stop without pain—typically 5-7 days after laparoscopic surgery, 1-2 weeks after open surgery.

Return to work depends on your occupation. Those with desk jobs may return within 1-2 weeks. Jobs requiring moderate physical activity may require 2-4 weeks off. Jobs involving heavy manual labor typically require 4-6 weeks or longer before full duties can be resumed.

Heavy lifting (more than 10-15 pounds) should be avoided for 4-6 weeks to allow the repair to strengthen. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your procedure and progress. Gradually increase lifting over several weeks once cleared.

Sexual activity can usually be resumed when comfortable, typically 1-2 weeks after surgery. Strenuous exercise and sports should be avoided for 4-6 weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.

Possible Complications

While hernia surgery is generally very safe, complications can occur. Being aware of these helps you recognize problems early.

Wound complications include infection (signs: increasing redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, fever), hematoma (blood collection under the skin causing significant swelling), and seroma (fluid collection). Most wound issues are minor and resolve with conservative treatment.

Chronic groin pain is the most common long-term complication, occurring in about 10-12% of patients (most mild). Severe chronic pain affects 1-3% of patients. This may be due to nerve damage during surgery, mesh-related inflammation, or other factors.

Recurrence of the hernia occurs in 1-2% of mesh repairs. Risk factors for recurrence include smoking, obesity, wound infection, and repair without mesh.

Testicular problems in men can include orchitis (testicular inflammation) or, rarely, testicular atrophy due to damage to blood supply. These occur in less than 1% of cases.

Can You Prevent Inguinal Hernias?

While you cannot completely prevent inguinal hernias, especially if you have genetic predisposition, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, using proper lifting technique, not smoking, treating chronic coughs, eating high-fiber foods to prevent constipation, and strengthening your core muscles.

Congenital inguinal hernias in children cannot be prevented—they result from developmental processes before birth. For adults, while no measure can guarantee prevention, several lifestyle modifications can reduce your risk.

Maintain a healthy body weight. Excess weight increases pressure on the abdominal wall and weakens supporting tissues. If you are overweight, gradual weight loss through diet and exercise can reduce your hernia risk.

Use proper lifting techniques. When lifting heavy objects, bend at your knees (not your waist), keep the object close to your body, lift with your leg muscles rather than your back, avoid twisting while lifting, and get help with very heavy loads. If your job involves heavy lifting, ensure you are using proper ergonomic techniques.

Don't smoke. Smoking weakens connective tissue throughout the body, including the abdominal wall. It also causes chronic cough, which increases abdominal pressure. Quitting smoking reduces hernia risk and improves surgical outcomes if you do need repair.

Treat chronic cough. Persistent coughing from conditions like COPD, allergies, or asthma puts repeated stress on the abdominal wall. Work with your doctor to manage underlying conditions that cause coughing.

Prevent constipation. Straining during bowel movements is a common contributor to hernias. Eat a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), drink plenty of water, and address any underlying digestive issues. If needed, use fiber supplements or stool softeners.

Strengthen your core muscles. Strong abdominal and core muscles provide better support for the abdominal wall. However, avoid exercises that significantly increase intra-abdominal pressure (like heavy weight lifting or sit-ups with weights) if you already have a hernia.