[TomTomorrow]

Possible Hernia, But With Odd Symptoms?

Dr. Towfigh,

Does the fact that my hernia may contain only fat affect treatment options? In other words, would surgery possibly be more worthy of consideration if it contained bowel? Is it likely to involve my intestines over time, or can fat-only hernias remain stable? Can small hernias ever close by themselves?

Also: do you recommend that anyone with a weakened abdominal wall perform any kind of core strengthening exercises to try and ward off any further tearing, or would that exacerbate the issue? I do like lifting weights, but will be holding off until consultation. Hoping I can continue exercising.

[TomTomorrow]

Possible Hernia, But With Odd Symptoms?

Dr. Towfigh,

I was finally able to undergo a CT scan–with Vasalva, to my surprise. (Didn’t think the local imaging place would be that progressive.) Doctor phoned this morning to say it showed a small inguinal hernia with fat, not bowel. She’s referring me to a surgeon.

Because it consists of fat, I wonder if that might be affecting the dull ache I experience when I haven’t ejaculated. Can the fatty tissue be pressing on the spermatic cord? Is it possible this is a cord lipoma?

Of course, I’ll address these questions with the surgeon, but wanted to try and come armed with a little bit of knowledge. Thanks.

[TomTomorrow]

Possible Hernia, But With Odd Symptoms?

Thank you, Doctor. Just one last follow-up: you mentioned that my sexual symptoms (testicular/abdominal aches if ejaculation is delayed) is not related to hernia. Does that mean hernia can never cause compression or defect of any sexual-related anatomy in the inguinal canal? If my CT is negative, should I pursue a second opinion with a hernia surgeon or head to a urologist instead? If it is a hernia, would the urologist be able to detect that?

[TomTomorrow]

Possible Hernia, But With Odd Symptoms?

Thank you for responding, Doctor. With my physician able to feel a moving bulge upon coughing in or near my inguinal canal, what is the likelihood I have a hernia? And can the CT scan be useful even if it’s negative?