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What is a Femoral Hernia?
A femoral hernia is a type of a hernia located in the inguinal region but anatomically somewhat different than the typical inguinal hernia. The distinction between a inguinal hernia and a femoral hernia is usually made on a clinical basis. A femoral hernia is a protrusion of a piece of intestine or fatty tissue through a weakness at the top of the leg. This weakness occurs where there is a natural gap, wide enough to admit a little finger, where the femoral vein, artery and nerve pass from the abdominal cavity into the leg. Femoral hernias are most common in those over the age of 50. They are more common in women as their pelvises are wider, but do occur in men. They are often bilateral (occurring on both sides).
Causes of a Femoral Hernia
A femoral hernia can simply occur of its own accord, but anything which increases pressure on this part of your body can also cause a hernia such as coughing, pregnancy and straining to lift heavy objects.
Symptoms of a Femoral Hernia
Symptoms include a lump in the groin, sometimes with pain and discomfort. They frequently strangulate causing colicky pains, distension, vomiting and constipation. Once diagnosed, a femoral hernia needs urgent surgical repair because of this high risk of strangulation.
*This website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a physician or other qualified health provider can diagnose and treat a hernia.
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