K40: Inguinal hernia

K40.2: Bilateral inguinal hernia, without obstruction or gangrene

Bilateral inguinal hernia, without obstruction or gangrene, is a condition where there's a protrusion of tissue, usually part of the intestine, through a weak spot in the abdominal wall in the groin region, on both the left and right side. This condition does not involve the complications of obstruction, which is when the herniated tissue causes blockage in the intestines, or gangrene, which is tissue death due to lack of blood supply. Common symptoms include a noticeable bulge on either- or both sides of the groin, discomfort or pain in the area especially when coughing, bending over, or lifting heavy objects. Bilateral inguinal hernias can arise from increased pressure within the abdomen, a pre-existing weak spot in the abdominal wall, or from strain due to heavy lifting, prolonged coughing, or due to physical exertion. This condition can affect anyone irrespective of age and gender but happens more frequently in men.