Dear Dr. Gott: Seven years ago, I had bilateral inguinal-hernia repair done by laparoscopy. Before the surgery, I had some pain on the right side of my groin, but there was no visible hernia.

In recent years, I have felt some minor discomfort on the right side.

Over the past few months, a large bump has protruded on the right side usually later in the day. There is no pain associated with it, and it disappears when I lie down.

Lately, I have been wearing a hernia belt to try to keep it reduced. I am in good physical condition and very active.

Can you tell me if this bump is another hernia?

Reply: I suspect that you have developed another hernia.

If it is at the site of your previous repair, it is likely an incisional hernia, meaning that the site of the previous surgery has weakened, allowing the affected organ (most likely a loop of intestine) to protrude through the surgical scar.

Return to your physician or your surgeon for an examination, testing and diagnosis.

If you truly have developed another hernia, it is important to have it treated properly to prevent complications.

Such complications vary according to the type and location of the hernia. Inguinal hernias, such as you have had before, occur in the groin and most often involve the intestines.

If a loop of intestine becomes trapped in the opening of the muscle, it can lead to blockage, necrosis (tissue death) and sepsis (blood infection) if not repaired.

Treatment depends on the location and severity of the hernia. Most are repaired surgically. There are several types of surgery available, including the standard operation, those repaired with mesh or patch material to strengthen the area of muscle weakness and laparoscopic, which is less invasive.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report 'An Informed Approach to Surgery'. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped number 10 envelope and a cheque or money order for $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dr. Peter Gott is a retired physician and the author of 'Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet' and 'Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook'. Contact him c/o United Media, 200 Madison Avenue, fourth floor, New York, New York 10016.