Medically reviewed by: Dr. Anthony Kallas Chemaly
Last reviewed: April 5, 2026
Sources used on this page: trusted clinical references and pediatric-hospital resources listed below.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia happens when intestine or other tissue passes through an opening in the groin area. In babies and children, it is usually related to an inguinal canal that has not fully closed after birth. The result is a soft bulge in the groin or scrotum.
Signs and symptoms
Parents often notice a lump that becomes more obvious when the child cries, strains, coughs, or stands. The bulge may get smaller when the child relaxes. If the hernia becomes trapped, the child may develop pain, a firm or red lump, vomiting, abdominal distention, or irritability.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made by physical examination. Ultrasound may be used when the diagnosis is uncertain or when the bulge is not visible during the visit.
When is it an emergency?
An inguinal hernia becomes urgent when it is incarcerated, meaning it cannot be pushed back in, or strangulated, meaning blood supply is threatened. A painful, tender, firm, or discolored bulge with vomiting needs immediate medical attention.
Treatment
Unlike many umbilical hernias, inguinal hernias do not close by themselves. Surgical repair is recommended after diagnosis, and it should be performed urgently if the hernia is trapped. The goal is to prevent bowel injury and repeated incarceration.
Dr. Kallas Chemaly's approach
Dr. Kallas Chemaly explains clearly whether a hernia is reducible, urgent, or already complicated. Families receive practical guidance about what symptoms are safe to monitor, what signs require emergency review, and when to proceed with repair.
References
- Nationwide Children's Hospital: Inguinal Hernia in Children
- Stanford Medicine Children's Health: Inguinal Hernia in Children
- MedlinePlus: Hernia
Serving families across Beirut and Mount Lebanon
Dr. Kallas Chemaly sees children from Achrafieh, Gemmayzeh, Saifi, Sodeco, Verdun, Hamra, Clemenceau, Ras Beirut, Rabieh, Mtayleb, Brummana, Beit Mery, Bikfaya, Mansourieh, Kornet Chehwan, Antelias, Dbayeh, Jounieh, Kaslik, Hazmieh, Yarze, and across Keserwan, Metn, and Baabda.