Know About the Treatment After Hernia Surgery
Treatment after hernia surgery needs to be done properly because it can determine the length of the recovery process and reduce the risk of complications.
A hernia is a condition when an organ protrudes from the weakening of the connective tissue and is unable to hold the organ. This condition is generally characterized by lumps that disappear in certain parts of the body, such as the stomach, navel, or groin.
Hernias aren't always dangerous. The doctor will usually recommend a hernia operation if the lump is getting bigger, accompanied by pain, or has disrupted organ function. Hernia surgery itself can be done by open surgical techniques or by laparoscopy.
Most hernias can return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks after surgery. However, this depends on your physical condition, the type of surgery you performed, and how you performed treatment after a hernia operation.
Treatment that needs to be performed after Hernia Surgery
Proper treatment can speed up the recovery process and prevent complications. The following are some of the things you need to do during treatment after a hernia surgery:
1. Consumption of fiber foods
After your doctor makes sure your condition is stable, you can start eating solid foods. The recommended types of food are fiber-rich foods, such as nuts, cereals, fruits, potatoes, and broccoli.
The purpose of eating fibrous foods is so that you can defecate smoothly and the stool is more easily removed. , so you don't have to push too hard. That way, your abdominal cavity does not get excessive pressure.
2. Increase consumption of water
You are also encouraged to drink 8-10 glasses of water per day. Besides helping to smooth digestion and make stool softer, water is also beneficial for maintaining body fluid balance and preventing dehydration that may occur after surgery.
3. Walk and move regularly
After a hernia operation, you are advised to walk or move regularly to prevent blood clots and help the healing process. Even so, avoid sports that are too strenuous, such as jo ging or lifting weights, to prevent stitches from reopening.
For cases of hernias that are more complex or frequently recur, avoid various strenuous activities for at least 6 months after surgery.
4. Change bandages regularly
Change bandages regularly according to doctor's instructions. Make sure you always wash your hands thoroughly with soap before changing gauze or bandages in the area of the surgical wound. This aims to prevent infection in the surgical wound.
5. Take pain relievers
Pain often is felt during the first few weeks after surgery. However, you can relieve the pain by taking pain relievers, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or other pain medications prescribed by your doctor.
Pain often also occurs when you cough or sneeze. You can reduce the pain by applying a little pressure to the surface of the surgical wound with your hand or pillow when coughing or sneezing.
In addition, there are some things you need to avoid after undergoing a hernia surgery. Here are the things you need to consider during post-hernia treatment:
- Avoid heavy lifting or excessive activity, for 4-6 weeks.
- Avoid bathing by soaking, until the bandages and stitches have been removed. Bandages are usually removed on the fifth day after surgery, whereas stitches are removed on the seventh day after surgery.
- Don't have sex, at least for 2 weeks.
- Don't smoke, because it can increase the risk of it happening infection and inhibit the wound healing process.
- Avoid driving a vehicle, for at least 2-3 days after surgery. This is because the influence of drugs and pain relievers can make you feel dizzy, sleepy, out of focus, or difficult to remember.
- Avoid consuming alcohol, because it can inhibit recovery.
- Avoid wearing clothes which is too tight, so that the scar is not rubbed so it is difficult to heal.
Various Risks of Complications After Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery is a surgical procedure that is safe to do. However, every surgical procedure still has risks. The following are some of the complications that may occur after a hernia surgery:
- Surgical wound infection.
- The formation of blood clots or emboli that can flow into the lungs through blood vessels.
- Impaired kidney function.
- Nerve disorders (neuralgia) that cause pain or tingling in the abdomen, legs, or groin.
- Hernias recur again.
- Formation of seroma (fluid buildup) or hematoma (blood buildup) around the area around the operated area.
- Prolonged pain after surgery, but rarely occurs.
Proper treatment after hernia surgery can prevent you from complications and make recovery faster. Therefore, always follow your doctor's instructions on how to treat surgical wounds, recommended eating patterns, and activities that need to be avoided.
If after surgery you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, or swollen surgical wound. and odorous discharge comes out, immediately consult a doctor to get further treatment.
Written by:
Dr. Irene Cindy Sunur
Label : Health
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