Inguinal Swelling – Causes, Symptoms & When It Needs Surgery
Inguinal swelling (swelling in the groin area) is a very common complaint, especially in adults and children. It may be painless or painful, small or large, soft or firm — but understanding the cause is important because some conditions require immediate surgery.
🔍 What Is Inguinal Swelling?
It is any lump, bulge, or swelling that appears in the groin region, typically where the thigh meets the lower abdomen.
It may appear:
- While standing
- While coughing or lifting
- All the time (persistent swelling)
Some swellings disappear when lying down, while others remain constant.
⚠️ Common Causes of Inguinal Swelling
1️⃣ Inguinal Hernia (Most Common Cause)
A portion of intestine or fat pushes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall.
Symptoms:
- Visible bulge
- Pain while lifting or standing
- Discomfort in groin
- Swelling reduces when lying down
A hernia never heals by itself — surgery is the only treatment.
2️⃣ Undescended Testis (in children)
The testis may stay in the groin instead of the scrotum.
3️⃣ Enlarged Lymph Nodes (Lymphadenitis)
Swollen nodes due to:
- Infection
- Skin disease
- STD
- Tuberculosis
4️⃣ Hydrocele (Fluid around testis in adults)
Fluid collection in the scrotum that may extend toward the groin.
5️⃣ Femoral Hernia
A dangerous hernia that can get strangulated quickly.
6️⃣ Lipoma / Fatty Swelling
Soft, movable, harmless fatty lump.
7️⃣ Abscess / Infection
Painful, red, warm swelling that may need drainage.
🚨 Warning Signs – When It May Be Serious
Seek urgent medical treatment if swelling is associated with:
- Severe pain
- Vomiting
- Inability to pass gas or stool
- Sudden hardening of the bulge
- Red or dark discoloration
- Fever
These may indicate strangulated hernia, a surgical emergency.
🧪 Diagnosis
Evaluation includes:
- Physical examination
- Ultrasound groin
- Blood tests
- Doppler (if vascular issue suspected)
🔧 Treatment Options
✔ Inguinal Hernia Surgery
- Laparoscopic hernia repair
- Open mesh repair
- Same-day discharge
- Quick recovery
✔ Treatment of Lymph Nodes
- Antibiotics
- TB treatment if needed
✔ Hydrocele Treatment
- Hydrocelectomy (minor surgery)
✔ Abscess
- Drainage + antibiotics
✔ Lipoma
- Minor surgical removal
👨⚕️ Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bhanushali for Groin Swelling Treatment?
- Expertise in all types of hernia surgeries
- Laparoscopic hernia specialist
- Same-day emergency care
- Modern OT & advanced imaging
- Accurate diagnosis within minutes
🏥 FULL CLINIC & HOSPITAL DETAILS
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic
Shop No 4, Laxmi Krupa, Edulji Road, Charai, Thane West – 400602
📞 +91 86910 33066
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Aayush Multispecialty Hospital
👨⚕️ Dr. Ankur Bhanushali – General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
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📞 +91 86910 33033
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