It seems I have a hernia. In fact, as the guys in the 1930s movies say: "Make mine a double." Both sides.
Fortunately, the fix is very routine today. Next Monday, I will be having laparoscopic surgery. No big scar or big sutures, recovery time is shorter than with conventional surgery, and it generally doesn't recur with this method. General anesthesia, though. So, send good thoughts my way on the 29th. I'll keep you posted.
--Peter
