A double hernia is when two inguinal or groin hernias occur on both sides of your groin area. It is also called a bilateral hernia, as bilateral means both sides. Double hernias can also be referred to as simultaneous right and left inguinal hernias. This is quite common in men.
Depending on the size and symptoms of your double hernia, you may need surgical treatment. Surgery is the only way to repair a hernia. It involves pushing both of the hernia bulges back into place and strengthening both sides of your weakened abdominal wall area using a mesh.
What causes multiple hernias?
Multiple hernias are caused by weaknesses on both sides of your lower abdominal wall. Your organs or tissues bulge out through these weak abdominal wall areas and cause a lump on both sides of your groin, called hernias.
An inguinal hernia can occur for various reasons. The weakening of your abdominal wall may be caused by ageing, doing strenuous physical activity or lifting heavy objects, excessive coughing and sneezing, constipation, being overweight or pregnant, smoking, an injury, or abdominal surgery. Weak spots or tears can develop in the layer of muscle in the abdominal wall, resulting in the contents of the abdomen pushing through. This produces a lump called a hernia.
Multiple hernias may also occur due to congenital reasons if you have an inguinal canal defect present at birth.
Symptoms
The double hernia symptoms are:
A bulge in the affected area which is more defined when upright
Burning or aching sensation at the bulge
Pain or discomfort in the groin area, which worsens when bending over, coughing, or lifting heavy objects
Heavy or dragging sensation in the groin area
Weakness or pressure in your groin
Pain and swelling around the testicles
How do you treat a double hernia?
Hernias may not be painful when they first occur. However, if left unattended, the weak spot can grow, and simple acts such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects can be painful. A hernia can be dangerous because the intestines or other structures within the abdomen can get trapped and have their blood supply cut off (also known as a strangulated hernia).
Hernia repair surgery is recommended to treat a double hernia. The surgery can be done through open surgery or laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery, or keyhole surgery, is preferred as it allows both hernias to be repaired at the same time, and patients have a quicker recovery compared to open hernia surgery.
What is the recovery process after a double hernia surgery?
Recovery from hernia surgery is usually very quick, although it can be different for each patient depending on their individual situation.
You should typically start to feel better after a few days, and within a week you should be recovering well. For a while though, you may feel discomfort or a pulling sensation in the affected area when you move, and you may also have some bruising in the region, which is normal.
Seek medical advice from us
If you have concerns about a double hernia or think you may have one that is yet to be diagnosed, please contact us for more advice and support.
With a wealth of medical experience and knowledge in double hernias and the appropriate hernia repair treatment, we will be able to help answer any of your queries. Contact us today to find out more.
Common FAQs on double hernias
Similar to single hernias, double hernias are caused by weakened abdominal muscles and increased pressure in the abdomen. This pressure can be from activities like heavy lifting, straining during bowel movements, or even from conditions like obesity or pregnancy.
Gentle activity around the home will help your wound heal. After 1 week, you should feel more comfortable and be able to walk short distances and do light activities. Do not do any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 6 weeks. This will help with healing and prevent the hernia from returning.
A double hernia is made up of two inguinal hernias, one on each side of the groin.
Most double hernias are treated using laparoscopic surgery with a faster recovery than open surgery. After surgery, you will be able to walk around but it’s advised that you mostly rest initially. Typically, you will go home the same day or the day after your procedure.
Hernia “red flags” are symptoms or signs that indicate a hernia is potentially serious or requires immediate medical attention.
These include sudden, severe pain, nausea, vomiting, inability to move bowels or pass gas, a hernia that can’t be pushed back in, or a hernia that changes colour, feels numb, or causes a fever.