Groin Problems And Injuries: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Do you have a lump, bulge, or swelling in the groin?

See significance of a lump, bulge, or swelling in the groin if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have severe pain and a lump or swelling in the groin?

Yes

Do you have severe pain and a known inguinal hernia?

Yes

Do you have diabetes and a new lump or swelling in the groin with signs of infection, such as redness or pus?

Yes

Do you have peripheral arterial disease and a new lump or swelling in the groin with signs of infection, such as redness or pus?

Yes

Do you have a disease or take a medicine that causes problems with your immune system and a new lump or swelling in the groin with signs of infection, such as redness or pus?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have moderate pain and a lump or swelling in the groin?

Yes

Do you have a new lump or swelling in the groin with signs of infection, such as redness or pus?

Yes

Do you have new swelling or bulging in the groin after lifting or straining?

Yes

Do you have a new lump or swelling in the groin that you think is a swollen gland (lymph node)?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have a new swelling in the groin for longer than 24 hours, but do not have pain?

Yes

Do you have mild pain and swelling with redness less than around the affected area after 24 hours of home treatment?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had any lump or swelling in the groin without other symptoms for longer than 2 weeks?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	March 29, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Philip Belitsky, MD, FRCSC - Urology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer