How to Help Someone Recover After Hernia Surgery

Hernias can affect almost anybody. Hernias happen to people of both genders, all races and of any age. It's not unlikely that you or somebody you know will experience a hernia and have to undergo surgery to repair it. If this happens to you or a person you know, here's how to help someone recover after hernia surgery.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Learn as much about hernias and hernia surgery as you can. Go with the person to the pre- and post-operational appointments, read books about hernia surgery and visit Web sites like Medline Plus, Yahoo Health and Health A to Z to learn more (see Resources).

2. Understand the complications that can arise after hernia surgery. Some common complications can occur after the hernia surgery, such as excess bleeding, infection and the reopening of the incision. Watch for signs of infection including leakage from the incision site and an odd smell.

3. Get plenty of rest. Many people don't realize what a shock surgery can be to the body. The patient will be tired and sore for at least a few days after surgery. Make sure they stay well-rested and stay in bed as much as possible.

4. Clean the surgical incision. Keep the wound clean with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. This will help stave off an infection and aid in a speedy recovery.

5. Plan for the patient to avoid all heavy lifting and any kind of cardio activity for a few weeks after the surgery. Make sure things they need are within reach when you cannot be around.

6. Give them a diet of easy-to-digest liquids like sports drinks and soups until their digestive system has completely recovered and returned to normal. Ask the doctor when they will be able to begin eating normally following the surgery.

7. Contact the patient's physician for a follow up examination. This is especially important if there is an unusual amount of discomfort for the patient during recovery. If the patient is experiencing a great deal of pain after the surgery that the prescribed medication will not alleviate, you should contact the doctor immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Although it can be a trying experience, surgery is becoming less invasive and more advanced all the time. Look for laparoscopic hernia surgery as an option, if possible.
• Keeping the incision clean also helps in minimizing any scarring.
• Do not allow the patient to eat or drink anything the day of their surgery, as it's imperative that they go into the operating room with an empty stomach.
• If their bowels aren't clear, some patients are given an enema before their hernia surgery.

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