Inguinal Hernia in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
An inguinal hernia happens when abdominal organs or tissue push through a weak spot in your child's abdominal wall. The abdominal wall is made of fat and muscle. It holds the intestines in place. The hernia may contain fluid, tissue from the abdomen, or part of an organ (such as an intestine).
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- Your child's hernia gets bigger, is firm, or is blue or purple.
- Your child's abdomen seems larger, rounder, or more full than usual.
- Your child has severe abdominal pain.
- Your child cannot have a bowel movement or pass gas.
- Your child has blood in his or her bowel movement.
- Your child has nausea and is vomiting.
- Your child cries more than usual or seems like he or she is in pain.
Call your child's doctor if:
- Your child has a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Medicines:
Your child may need the following:
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If your child takes blood thinner medicine, always ask if NSAIDs are safe for him or her. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. Do not give these medicines to children younger than 6 months without direction from a healthcare provider.
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to give your child and how often to give it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines your child uses to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your child's doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- Do not give aspirin to children younger than 18 years. Your child could develop Reye syndrome if he or she has the flu or a fever and takes aspirin. Reye syndrome can cause life-threatening brain and liver damage. Check your child's medicine labels for aspirin or salicylates.
- Give your child's medicine as directed. Contact your child's healthcare provider if you think the medicine is not working as expected. Tell the provider if your child is allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs your child takes. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why they are taken. Bring the list or the medicines in their containers to follow-up visits. Carry your child's medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Care for your child:
- Give your child foods high in fiber. Fiber may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Foods that contain fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains.
- Do not place pressure on your child's hernia. Do not push on the hernia or place tape or a coin over it.
- Give your child liquids as directed. Liquids may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Ask how much liquid to give your child each day and which liquids are best for him or her.
Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:
Your child may need to see a surgeon to plan surgery. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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