What are the causes of inguinal hernia?
Nov 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, inguinal hernias may result from factors such as weak abdominal wall muscles, chronically elevated intra-abdominal pressure, chronic constipation, chronic cough, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, avoid prolonged urine retention and sitting for long periods, maintain regular sleep patterns, control body weight, and reduce strain on the abdominal wall.
Under normal circumstances, inguinal hernia may be caused by factors such as weak abdominal wall muscles, prolonged increased intra-abdominal pressure, chronic constipation, chronic cough, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Weak abdominal wall muscles: Congenital defects in abdominal wall development or age-related muscle atrophy can lead to weakened abdominal wall resistance, making it easier for abdominal contents to protrude and form a hernia. Regular exercises such as planks and crunches can help strengthen abdominal muscles. Avoid strenuous physical activity to reduce the risk of hernia formation.
2. Chronically elevated intra-abdominal pressure: Long-term engagement in heavy physical labor or frequent lifting of heavy objects increases intra-abdominal pressure, pushing abdominal contents toward weak areas of the abdominal wall. Adjust work habits to avoid excessive physical strain, use proper lifting techniques, and employ tools when necessary to reduce abdominal stress.
3. Chronic constipation: Persistent constipation leads to excessive straining during bowel movements, causing sudden spikes in intra-abdominal pressure, which may trigger an inguinal hernia. Symptoms often include difficulty passing stool and bloating. Patients may take medications such as lactulose oral solution, polyethylene glycol 4000 powder, or glycerin suppositories (e.g., Kaisailu) as directed by a physician to improve bowel movements.
4. Chronic cough: Persistent coughing, such as that caused by chronic bronchitis, continuously raises intra-abdominal pressure, promoting herniation of abdominal contents. Patients should follow medical advice to take antitussive and anti-infective medications such as dextromethorphan hydrobromide oral solution, pentoxifylline citrate tablets, or amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets to control coughing and reduce its impact on intra-abdominal pressure.
5. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): In male patients, prostate enlargement can cause difficulty urinating, requiring forceful straining and breath-holding during urination, thereby increasing intra-abdominal pressure and potentially triggering an inguinal hernia. Symptoms may include frequent urination and urgency. Medications such as tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules, finasteride tablets, or Qianlieshutong capsules may be prescribed to improve urinary flow. In severe cases, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) may be required to relieve obstruction and lower intra-abdominal pressure.
In daily life, it is important to avoid holding urine for long periods, prolonged sitting, maintain a regular sleep schedule, manage body weight, and reduce strain on the abdominal wall. If a bulge appears in the groin area, avoid pressing or squeezing it and seek prompt medical evaluation to prevent worsening of the condition.
