Hernias that occur in the groin are known as inguinal hernias. These are characterized by small balloon-like pouches protruding from the groin region. These form at a natural point of weakness at the intersection of abdominal muscles. The protrusions occurs when a loop of intestine or fat passes through this weak point and either enters the inguinal canal or pushes out just medial (more in the middle) to the inguinal canal. Men usually suffer from inguinal hernias developing in the groin, and may notice an ambiguous discomfort or even a bulge in the scrotum. Infants and children also suffer from inguinal hernias when a part of the lining of the abdominal cavity called the peritoneum does not close properly. This leads to a bulge in the groin because the intestine or other abdominal contents may push into the opening when the pressures inside the abdomen rise.

A hernia is a condition in which a part of an organ pushes through the opening of the organ wall made up of muscle tissue or membranous material. The most common site for hernias to develop is the abdomen. Hernias may or may not display any outward symptoms. Hernias are usually treated surgically. If the blood supply at the herniated portion is cut off then it becomes a medical emergency. Muscle weakness and straining too hard at an activity can cause hernias. A person born with weak abdominal muscles is more likely to acquire the condition, particularly if he leads a sedentary lifestyle without any form of exercise.

The duodenum lies at the beginning of the small intestine. Together with the jejunum, and the ileum it forms the small intestine. It is connected to the stomach above and the jejunum below it. When food enters the duodenum, there are multiple feed-back pathways and nervous reflexes that will affect how fast the stomach empties as well as the secretion of other hormones.