Non-Surgical or Conservative Management:

1. Observation:

   • Small, asymptomatic hernias may be monitored without immediate intervention. Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional are essential to assess any changes in the hernia.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Avoiding activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as heavy lifting, may help prevent the hernia from worsening. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce strain on the abdominal muscles.

3. Use of a Supportive Device:

   • Wearing a supportive device, such as a hernia truss or belt, may provide temporary relief and help keep the hernia in place. However, these devices are typically not recommended as a long-term solution.

Surgical Intervention:

1. Hernia Repair Surgery:

   • The most common and effective treatment for inguinal hernias is surgical repair. There are two main types of hernia repair surgeries: open hernia repair (herniorrhaphy) and laparoscopic hernia repair.

2. Open Hernia Repair (Herniorrhaphy):

   • In this procedure, a surgeon makes an incision in the groin, pushes the protruding tissue back into place, and reinforces the weakened area with stitches or a mesh material.

3. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair:

   • This minimally invasive procedure involves making several small incisions and using a camera and special instruments to repair the hernia. A mesh may also be used to reinforce the weakened area.

4. Mesh Repair:

   • The use of mesh in hernia repair helps to reduce the risk of recurrence. It provides additional support to the weakened tissue and allows for tension-free repair.

5. Outpatient Procedure:

   • Inguinal hernia repair is often performed as an outpatient procedure, and recovery time is generally relatively short.

Emergency Surgery:

1. Strangulated Hernia:
   • If an inguinal hernia becomes trapped (incarcerated) and blood flow to the protruding tissue is blocked (strangulated), emergency surgery is necessary to release the trapped tissue and repair the hernia.