Inguinal hernia is the result of an organ, usually bowel, protruding through a weak point or tear in the thin muscular abdominal wall. The most common cause is lifting heavy objects. Inguinal hernias can restrict blood supply to the bowel herniated through the defect, creating a medical emergency.

Review Date: 9/25/2000 12:00:00 AM Reviewed By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director; G. Eric Morgan, MS3; RxRemedy

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