How do you do a physical exam for inguinal hernia?
The physical examination should begin by carefully inspecting the femoral and inguinal areas for bulges while the patient is standing. Then, the patient should be asked to strain down (i.e., Valsalva maneuver) while the physician observes for bulges.
Can you palpate inguinal hernia?
To palpate for an inguinal hernia, place hand at the location of the inguinal canal, superior to inguinal ligament and just lateral to the scrotum. Have the patient strain down or cough in standing to feel for a palpable mass.
How are hernias detected during a male physical exam?
Many hernias are discovered during routine physical exams. If you’re a guy, you may have had a physical exam where your doctor gave you a testicular exam and checked your testicles for a hernia. By placing a finger at the top of your scrotum and asking you to cough, the doctor can feel if you have a hernia.
How do you physically check for a hernia?
Examination of an adult for an inguinal hernia is best performed from the seated position, with the patient standing. The inguinal canal areas for the bulge are visualized. A provocative cough may be necessary to expose the hernia; the cough is repeated as the examiner invaginates the scrotum and feels for an impulse.
How would you describe a hernia on a physical exam?
With the fingers placed over the femoral region, the external inguinal ring, and the internal ring, have the patient cough. A palpable bulge or impulse located in any one of these areas may indicate a hernia. The examiner should then return to the sitting position.
How do men get tested for an inguinal hernia?
Your doctor will check for a bulge in the groin area. Because standing and coughing can make a hernia more prominent, you’ll likely be asked to stand and cough or strain. If the diagnosis isn’t readily apparent, your doctor might order an imaging test, such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan or MRI.
How is an inguinal hernia diagnosed?
Diagnosis. A physical exam is usually all that’s needed to diagnose an inguinal hernia. Your doctor will check for a bulge in the groin area. Because standing and coughing can make a hernia more prominent, you’ll likely be asked to stand and cough or strain. If the diagnosis isn’t readily apparent, your doctor might order an imaging test,…
What are symptoms of inguinal hernia pain?
Common symptoms of an inguinal hernia include a bulge, burning sensation, and pain. Other possible symptoms of an inguinal hernia include a heavy sensation in the groin area, weakness in the groin, and various other symptoms related to the severity of the hernia.
What is the appearance of an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia happens when a weakness in the muscle of the groin allows a section of the intestine to bulge through. The first sign of an inguinal hernia is usually an unexplained bulge in the groin area . This type of hernia can be present at birth or develop over time.
What is the treatment for groin hernia?
Treatment for a groin hernia usually involves surgery. Coughing, lifting heavy objects, and the strain that comes from frequent constipation are just a few of the things that strain the abdominal and groin muscles. Excess fat in the stomach area puts added strain on muscles and the small intestine, which can lead to a groin hernia.