Which children are prone to inguinal hernia?

In general, pediatric inguinal hernias are associated with factors such as physiological development and overall health. Children at higher risk include premature infants and low-birth-weight infants, boys, those with a family history of hernias, children with chronically elevated intra-abdominal pressure, and those with congenital abdominal wall developmental abnormalities. The details are as follows:

1. Premature infants and low-birth-weight infants: Premature babies and infants weighing less than 2,500 grams at birth have immature development of abdominal wall muscles, fascia, and other tissues, resulting in weaker structural strength. Defects or weak areas in the abdominal wall at the inguinal canal are more pronounced, making it easier for intra-abdominal organs to protrude through these weak spots and form an indirect inguinal hernia.

2. Boys: In fetal development, the testes originate within the abdominal cavity and must descend through the inguinal canal into the scrotum before birth, creating a natural passage. If this passage fails to close completely after descent, abdominal organs such as the intestines may pass through it and form a hernia. Therefore, the incidence of indirect inguinal hernia in boys is significantly higher than in girls. Due to anatomical differences, girls have a much lower risk.

3. Children with a family history: Indirect inguinal hernias show some degree of genetic predisposition. If close relatives such as parents or siblings have had an inguinal hernia, the child may inherit a tendency for congenital weakness in abdominal wall development, increasing their risk. The greater the number of affected family members, the higher the likelihood the child will develop the condition.

4. Children with chronically elevated intra-abdominal pressure: Infants who frequently cry uncontrollably, suffer from chronic coughing, or experience persistent constipation often have prolonged periods of increased intra-abdominal pressure. This sustained pressure repeatedly stresses weak areas of the abdominal wall, making it easier for intra-abdominal organs to push through and cause an inguinal hernia.

5. Children with congenital abdominal wall developmental abnormalities: Some children are born with defects or poor development of abdominal wall muscles and aponeurotic structures due to congenital issues. As a result, the protective integrity of the abdominal wall in the inguinal region is compromised. Even without additional triggering factors, intra-abdominal organs may easily protrude through these weak areas, leading to an indirect inguinal hernia.

Parents of children at higher risk should closely monitor the inguinal area for any abnormal bulges. They should also aim to minimize situations that increase intra-abdominal pressure—such as promptly treating coughs and adjusting diet to prevent constipation—as part of daily care.