Hernia repair has become one of the most commonly performed procedures in the United States. A hernia basically occurs when the inner layers of the abdominal muscle weakens causing the bulging of the abdominal tissue or intestine to enter the sac. Hernias can be found in different areas of the body, the most common of which is the inguinal hernia.
Hernia Surgery Recovery Time
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Recovery time from a hernia surgery would depend on the type of hernia repair performed.
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Some hernia surgeries are so large and extensive that recovery time can take quite a long time.
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There are also hernia surgeries that can be performed on an outpatient basis.
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In order to hasten recovery, the patient should refrain from lifting heavy weights and objects for at least a month after surgery.
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The patient’s diet will also help in hastening the recovery period after a hernia surgery. For example, after an inguinal hernia repair, the patient’s diet should consist of foods rich in fiber.
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The patient’s position after surgery will also help in the hastening of recovery time. For an inguinal hernia repair, the patient must maintain an inclined sitting position for a few days.
Hernia Surgery Cost
There are many factors that affect the cost of a hernia surgery:
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The location of the hernia.
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The extent of repair needed.
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Whether the hernia repair is an emergency.
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The type of anesthesia used.
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Where the surgery is performed.
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The length of hospitalization after surgery.
Hernia Surgery Complications
Complications from a hernia surgery can occur during or after the procedure and it can occur with either open surgery or laparoscopic surgery.
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Difficulty in urinating
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Bleeding or hemorrhage
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Infection
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Hernia recurrence
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For males: scrotum discoloration and testicle shrinking
Hernia Symptoms
Awareness is always a plus especially when spotting the early onset of hernia. Some common symptoms of hernia include the following:
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Nausea and vomiting
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Constipation
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Pain – either localized, generalized, or referred pain
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Loss of ejaculatory function
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Dyspareunia – otherwise known as painful intercourse often felt by females
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Urinary problems such as hesitancy, urinary burning, bladder stones, frequency, and frequent infections
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Bulges in the localized area that is evident under the skin of the abdominal wall
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Difficulty when sitting down, especially during indirect inguinal hernia
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Inability to develop or even maintain an erection in males