Femoral Hernia

An uncommon type of hernia that contains loose areolar tissues and lymphatics, a femoral hernia is usually caused by the occurrence of a connective tissue disorder. It can be classified into two main types, namely the reducible hernia and the irreducible hernia. The first type is not painful and can be treated by general physicians. On the other hand, an irreducible femoral hernia is painful and should be treated by surgeons. Because of the serious health risks associated with this type of condition, it is very important to have ideas about the causes, symptoms and treatments for femoral hernias.

The Causes of Femoral Hernia

A femoral hernia is usually caused by the increase of intra-abdominal pressure. This medical condition is quite common among women because they have wider bone structures than males. It can also occur in babies below the age of one. In most pediatric cases, the condition is caused by the development of a disorder in connective tissues. Additionally, it can also be caused by severe femoral canal injuries and traumas. Other possible causes of femoral hernia include coughing, pregnancy and doing stressful physical activities. In addition, such medical condition is caused by constipation and urinary tract infection.

The Symptoms of Femoral Hernia

One of the symptoms of this hernia is the development of a grape-sized lump in the groin area. Aside from the detection of such lump, a patient with this medical condition can experience mild to severe pain in the inner upper part of the thigh. If a hernia is twisted or strangulated, a person can have a decreased blood supply, which can cause dizziness and frequent vomiting.

The Proper Diagnosis of Femoral Hernias

At the onset of these symptoms, patients should seek assistance from physicians right away. To confirm this medical condition, there is a need to examine the groin area for the presence of suspicious lumps. After performing a thorough physical examination, physicians may refer patients to surgeons if necessary.

The Treatments for Femoral Hernia

In order to treat this particular type of hernia, patients can undergo a laparoscopic surgery. This type of surgery is less painful than an open operation. If the size of the hernia is small, a surgeon can use a local anesthesia. On the other hand, if it is big for a laparoscopic or keyhole surgery, then it is better to use a general anesthesia.

Even if a surgery is successful, patients should expect mild pains in the groin area. After a surgery, they will be asked to take painkillers to relieve the pain in their thighs. If complications arise after surgery, physicians may advise them to take antibiotics to treat infections.

More Points on Femoral Hernia

A femoral hernia is a medical condition that can be caused by doing strenuous activities. Other possible causes include pregnancy and the occurrence of a connective tissue disorder. This condition can be categorized into two main types, which are the reducible and the irreducible hernia. To avoid experiencing the life-threatening complications associated with this type of hernia, patients are advised to seek medical help at the onset of these symptoms. To treat this condition, physicians may refer them to general surgeons in order to perform an open operation or a keyhole operation.