General Surgery Blogs

Dr. Steven Williams in Boise, Idaho

06Apr

Can My Child Have a Hernia?

Dr. Steve Williams | hernia, hernia repair, hernia surgery | Hernia Repair | | View Counts (9737) |Return|

Children can have inguinal hernias, which develop at the bottom of the abdominal wall where the abdomen meets the hip. The problem occurs when a weak muscle in this region allows abdominal or intestinal tissue to bulge. The condition is more often seen in premature infants. However, children may inherit this type of hernia. A testicle that does not descend or having cystic fibrosis also increases the risk of hernia development.

Inguinal Hernia Symptoms

The most obvious symptom of an inguinal hernia is a noticeable bulge or lump in the groin, genital area or lower abdomen when the child stands. The bulge typically disappears when the youngster is in a lying position. The lumps become more pronounced when children, cough, cry or are attempting to have a bowel movement. Inguinal hernias usually do not cause physical discomfort.

Hernia Diagnosis

If parents suspect that their child has an inguinal hernia, the child should see a physician. Your health care provider will examine the lower abdominal region for telltale signs. The physician may try to reduce the protrusion by applying firm pressure to the bulge, which typically moves the tissue back into the abdominal cavity. Physicians may recommend that the child undergo imaging studies to rule out possible blood flow obstructions, intestinal blockages or intestinal damage.

Managing the Problem

Make sure the child drinks plenty of liquids and eats high fiber foods. Otherwise, constipation puts undue stress on the weakened site. Do not attempt to bind the area, as this intervention may cause more harm. If recommended by a physician, the child may take OTC anti-inflammatory, analgesic medications for fever or pain.

Inguinal Hernia Treatment

In time, the problem might resolve itself without further medical intervention. If the abdominal muscle does not heal, the child may need surgery to correct the weakened area. Emergency surgery is necessary when the child can no longer have bowel movements or when images indicate a blockage or intestinal damage.

Related

Choosing a Surgeon

Choosing a Surgeon

Your surgeon should be supremely concerned about your recovery and getting you back to normal  funct...

Read More >
Can You Burp or Vomit After a GERD (or fundoplication) Surgery?

Can You Burp or Vomit After a GERD (or fundoplication) Surgery?

Many surgeons will tell their patients that after a fundoplication surgery for GERD or hiatal hernia...

Read More >
Men & Varicose Veins

Men & Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are genetic and affect both men and women. Daily activities can also contribute to th...

Read More >
Reasons to Call Your Surgeon's Office Post-Op

Reasons to Call Your Surgeon's Office Post-Op

For most people, the time after a surgical procedure is filled with resting and getting the body bac...

Read More >
Post-Operative Stretching

Post-Operative Stretching

My name is Josh Wageman and I’m a physical therapist. Most people do not need a formal course of ph...

Read More >
Do I Have to Change the Way I Eat After Gallbladder Surgery?

Do I Have to Change the Way I Eat After Gallbladder Surgery?

Most people who have their gallbladders removed do not have to alter their diet at all. Perhaps this...

Read More >

Subscribe

Name

Contact Dr. Steven Williams

Boise's Best General Surgeon

  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *
  • *

Call or Contact Us Now
Practicing General Surgery in the Boise area since 2002