Hernias are extremely common injuries that happen to many people. And while you may decide to wait to have yours repaired, eventually, you will need to seek treatment for this condition. Dealing with a hernia — and recovering from hernia surgery — are both possible parts of your journey, and we’re happy to help you do so in the easiest, smoothest way possible.
At Boca Care Surgical Associates, we provide minimally invasive surgery for hiatal hernia repair. Avraham Belizon, MD, FACS, FASCRS will be with you every step of the way as you decide when to have surgery, when to wait, and what to do during your recovery phase.
So you have a hernia; what now? For some people, no symptoms is a good thing. It means they don’t experience the pain and discomfort often associated with hernias, so they’re able to wait a while when it comes to getting surgery.
If this is the case, there are still some things you’ll want to do to make living with a hernia easier. For one, you’ll want to avoid heavy lifting, bending, and other strenuous activities. If you have a job that requires this, you’ll probably start experiencing symptoms sooner.
Another symptom associated with a hiatal hernia is acid reflux or GERD. Eating moderate amounts, not lying down after eating, and avoiding certain acidic foods can all help. You may also want to introduce more fiber into your diet, as constipation is also common.
If you’re able to manage your symptoms with these at-home remedies, then life after a hernia won’t be too complicated. However, once these symptoms become unmanageable, it’s time to schedule your surgery.
Scheduling your hernia surgery can be a bit tricky. For example, many people don’t realize they’ll need to take time off work in order to recover. Even if your job isn’t strenuous, we’d recommend taking one to two weeks — or longer if you do have a physically demanding job.
It’s common to experience pain post-surgery, which is why you’ll need to rest up. By the end of the first week, you should start feeling less pain. Bruising and discomfort for a while after are also common though.
Another important aspect is to monitor your food intake and your bowel movements. You’ll need to eat smaller meals throughout the day and drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated. Some people have trouble going to the bathroom after surgery, but you shouldn’t strain. Instead, you may be prescribed fiber pills, a high-fiber diet, or stool softeners.
Finally, you’ll need to take care of your incisions, being careful not to harm them or get them infected while they’re healing. Pain medications may also be part of your treatment regimen, especially early on.
Once you’ve healed from your surgery, you’ll be able to return to your normal life and activities. Most people never experience complications or further need for hiatal hernia surgery afterward. In fact, in a study of 221 people who received laparoscopic surgery for a hiatal hernia, only one required a secondary repair reoperation.
Being treated for a hernia may sound scary, but you will be able to discuss everything with your provider each step of the way. We’re here to help you have the best experience possible before, during, and after your surgery.
Call us at our Boca Raton, Florida office at 561-395-2626, or book an appointment online. We look forward to helping you!
