Patient's question:
The child has a right inguinal hernia and is 3 and a half years old. They haven't worn the hernia belt for the past two days and have been wearing a diaper instead. Tonight, while taking a nap, I noticed some swelling in the scrotum on the side of the hernia, but it doesn't hurt. I massaged it, and it shrank a little. What could be the reason? What should I do?Doctor's answer:
A 3-year-old boy with an inguinal hernia cannot recover with the use of a hernia belt for strict treatment. It is recommended to undergo surgery as early as possible, as both the surgery and anesthesia are relatively safe with low risks.If an inguinal hernia is left untreated:
1. It can interfere with normal movement.
2. It may cause digestive symptoms, such as lower abdominal discomfort, pain, and constipation.
3. The herniated contents may repeatedly protrude, compressing the spermatic cord and affecting blood supply to the testes as well as normal growth and development.
4. After the herniated contents protrude, they may re-occur as an incarceration, increasing the risk of emergency surgery and recurrence. Additionally, the herniated contents may become infected, leading to further complications.
In addition to seeking proper medical treatment from a urologist, patients should also pay attention to nursing care, such as maintaining a proper diet and keeping a positive mood. At the same time, patients should be mindful of choosing a reputable hospital for treatment to ensure a good therapeutic outcome.