7 Precautions To Be Taken After Undergoing A Hernia Surgery

Hernia is generally an effect of intense physical exertion and the chances of ailing from hernia largely depend on genetics. It is a condition when a specific organ pushes through a muscle wall or any membrane inside a human body and is treated via surgical procedures.

Post-operative hernia care is very critical to avoid any potential complications. People treated via a surgical technique for hernia need to give themselves sufficient days of bed rest, followed by weeks of relaxation to avoid straining the body in any way. During the recovery phase, it is essential to follow the advised post-operative care like to avoid smoking, running up the stairs, or following any strenuous exercise regime. One can definitely go for a walk and drink lot of fluids or consume a lot of fibre and vegetables.

A big no to smoking and yes to fluids!

ncreased intake of fluids is recommended after patients who have undergone a surgical treatment to treat hernia. We receive a good amount of fluid before and during surgery, however post-surgery the fluid intake typically decreases. Minimizing fluid consumption can lead to constipation. Avoiding fluids after hernia surgery can interfere with the bowel movements as the stools become dry and hard. Higher fluid intake will soften the stools and make bowel movements easier. As the body passes the unwanted food via large intestine, water re-absorption occurs here. If consumption of nicotine and narcotic pain medications is increased, it affects this process further. If the body does not replenish the fluids adequately it is known to cause dehydration and further drying and hardening of the stools. To restore proper hydration to all aspects of the body, is it imperative to re-establlish the adequate fluid intake soon after surgery. One should also limit nicotine intake after hernia surgery. Risk of complications post-surgical treatments are heightened to a great extent if one stays on a smoking regime. Possibilities of developing an infection in the surgical incision are increased. It is also known to cause acid reflux symptoms. Smoking after hernia repair should be avoided until six to eight weeks post-surgery.

Exercise to maintain a healthy weight

Though strenuous workouts are not encouraged after hernia surgery, physical activity under guidance can stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation. Light exercises such as walking are encouraged to promote weight loss. Exercises focused on muscle movement of legs, arms and shoulders and chest and back help burn calories and enhance metabolism. This aids in weight reduction. Try to begin with an exercise plan at least consult your therapist immediately. You can start walking to the extent you feel comfortable after surgery. With no specific limitation, always remember to listen to your body. One should avoid lifts and exercises like squatting. You can work out on your abs gradually with minor sit-ups. Strengthening abdominal muscles is advised by conducting exercises like lifting the knees in the air and shoulders slowly off the ground. If there is no pain, this exercise can be repeated. Deep breathing exercise should also be practiced to oxygenate the blood flow thereby expediting the healing process.

Increased usage of laxatives

To stimulate and hydrate the intestinal tract and avoid constipation, one should enhance the usage of laxatives and stool softeners. Consult your medical expert to opt for an over-the-counter laxative for hernia repair. One should not hesitate take an over-the-counter laxative for the first week after surgery. Use bulk-forming laxatives. They help in easier defecation of stools. It should take about three to five days to see positive results. Some examples of bulk-forming laxatives include methylcellulose, oat bran and polycarbophil. The dosage of such laxative should be increased gradually for the digestive system to adjust to this change. Other laxative agents such as Milk of Magnesia, Metamucil and Dulcolax tablets are also available in the market, which can be consumed after consulting the medical expert. These agents are safe and effective. Common problem after an an inguinal hernia repair is constipation which may also be worsened by pain killers. Consequently, they also help with post-operative constipation.

Consumption of fibre and vegetables

Fibre to an individual’s diet should be added slowly post hernia surgery as it can lead to complications varying from gas and bloating to abdominal cramps. Since hernia operation involves intestines to be pushed back inside the abdominal wall, intake of diet rich in fibre and fruits and vegetables will ensure smooth and easy bowel movements. This also helps to relieve the pain post inguinal surgery. Any excessive intake of dairy products should be avoided to ward off constipation. Some examples of foods rich in fibre are beans, whole grains, fruits and green leafy vegetables which are also known to prevent irritable bowel syndrome. Fibre rich food also helps to maintain the integrity of collagen and elastin of the abdominal wall along with lubrication of the intestines.

Keep the wound clean

Cleanliness is the key to quick recovery after surgical treatment of hernia. It is advisable to use a sponge or a towel for the first few days. This will help to keep the wound clean and avoid any kind of infections. Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Precautions like covering the wound while coughing helps. Surgical treatments can get contaminated too soon, therefore always follow stringent measures to keep the area clean and sterilized at all times. Until the incision heals, hygiene is of utmost importance. Before taking a shower, cover the surgical area with a plastic bag or use another technique to keep it dry. Keep a watch for any signs of infection. The use of non-absorbable mesh grafts could lead to infections or foreign body reactions if sanitation is not taken care of. Any kind of swelling or bluish discoloration at the incision site should be treated with an ice pack for 24-48 hours to relieve the swelling and discomfort. You may opt to keep a small pillow with you to avoid any discomfort while coughing. Taking a shower is advisable only after 24 hours after you go home unless you have drains. In case of metal clips or sutures not being visible, they are under the skin and will dissolve after 3 – 4 weeks.

Resuming activity after hernia repair

You will be able to mobilize post hernia surgery depending upon your surgical treatment. Hernia can be treated with various medical techniques like conventional surgery or laparoscopic surgery depending on the condition of the patient. The hernia which has been treated laproscopically allows the patient to return to their regular routine faster as compared to recovery from the conventional surgery which takes a little longer due to pain and soreness around the wound. Generally a doctor advises the patient on the amount of discomfort they might experience and precautions that need to be taken before resuming to daily routine. Precautions like standing up slowly should be taken care of Activities such as swimming or driving need to be avoided as they put a strain on the incision. The same holds true for office routine. Individuals who are in a desk job can usually can return to work within a week or two but where work require strenuous activity or heavy lifting require several more weeks of rest before they return to their job.

Follow-up on your appointment

It is imperative to schedule a follow-up visit 7-10 days after your surgery. Your doctor will check if the wound has healed completely or in case you need some special care including dosage of anti-biotics for few more days. He will also let you know in case any special precautions need to be taken to expedite the healing. In case of any change in your diet is required, your medical expert will guide you through it. In case your insision has not healed or if there is any kind of discomfort, talk to your doctor about it. If all is well, your doctor will remove your stitches in case they are not the ones that dissolve on their own. Or maybe your dressing will be changed depending upon the wound healing and the swelling and bruising checked. At this stage the doctor will also discuss the post-operative care and assess your condition to return to work. It is highly unlikely to suffer from any severe post-operative snags. Mild complications like blood clots or urinary problems may persist, for which your doctor will advise required medications, but these are extremely rare. You should also consult your doctor about when you can resume specific activities such as sports, heavy labor and lifting. Post your initial check-up, you should plan on weekly checkups to further avoid any risks until next four weeks. It is important to get regular medical checkups while following the precautions.