Treatment after hernia surgery needs to be done precisely because it can determine the length of the recovery process and reduce the risk of complications. So, so that the healing is good and you can immediately undergo activity again, know how to treat post hernia surgery correctly.
Hernias are conditions when the body's organs stick out due to the weakening of the connective tissue so that they are unable to hold the organ. This condition is generally characterized by lumps that arise in certain parts of the body, such as the stomach, navel, or groin.
Hernias are not 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 with 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 performed, and how you perform treatment after a hernia surgery.
Treatments That Need To Be Done After Hernia Surgery
Proper treatment can speed up the recovery process and prevent complications. The following are some of the things that you need to do during treatment after a hernia surgery:
1. Consumption of fibrous foods
After your doctor makes sure your condition is stable, you can start eating solid foods. The recommended foods are fiber-rich foods, such as beans, cereals, fruits, potatoes, and broccoli.
The purpose of consuming fibrous food is so that you can defecate smoothly and the stool is easier to pass, so you don't have to push too hard. That way, your abdominal cavity does not get excessive pressure.
2. Increase the consumption of water
You are also advised to drink 8-10 glasses of water per day. In addition to helping 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 surgery, you are advised to regularly walk or move to prevent blood clots and help the healing process. Even so, avoid sports that are too heavy, such as jogging or lifting weights, to prevent stitches open back.
For more complex or frequent cases of hernias, avoid various strenuous activities for at least 6 months after surgery.
4. Change the bandage regularly
Change bandages regularly according to doctor's instructions. Make sure you always wash your hands thoroughly with soap before replacing the gauze or bandage in the area of the surgical wound. This aims to prevent infection in the surgical wound.
5. Consumption of pain medications
The pain is often felt during the first few weeks after surgery. However, you can relieve the pain by taking pain medication, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or other pain medications prescribed by your doctor.
Pain also often appears 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. The following are the things you need to pay attention to during post hernia surgery:
- Avoid lifting heavy objects or doing excessive activities, for 4-6 weeks.
- Avoid bathing by bathing, until the bandages and stitches have been removed. Bandages are usually removed on the fifth day after surgery, while the stitches are removed on the seventh day after surgery.
- Do not have sex, at least for 2 weeks.
- Do not smoke, because it can increase the risk of infection and inhibit the wound healing process.
- Avoid driving a vehicle, at least for 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 hamper recovery.
- Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight, so the scars are not rubbed so it is difficult to heal.
Risks of Complications After Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery is a safe surgical procedure performed. However, every surgical procedure still has risks. The following are some of the complications that might 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.
- The formation of seroma (fluid buildup) or hematoma (blood buildup) around the area around the operated area.
- Pain is prolonged after surgery, but rarely occurs.
Proper treatment after hernia surgery can prevent you from complications and make recovery faster. Therefore, always follow the 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 wounds and smelling fluid comes out, immediately consult a doctor to get further treatment.
Komentar
Posting Komentar