Hernia Recovery: What to Expect Post Surgery
A hernia surgery is performed in the groin or the lower abdomen area of the body. On the day of surgery, you will need to go through your final health screenings. You may also need to consult an anesthesiologist to determine the suitability of local or general anesthesia. After undergoing general surgery, patients are able to return home on the same day. In case of a hernia surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for one or more nights for observation and any help in your recuperation. There are quite a few leading surgeons to consider when looking to undergo general surgery in Dallas. Here are some of the things you can expect after hernia surgery.
Dietary considerations
After undergoing a general surgery, you are required to pay attention to what you eat, although hernia surgery has no strict restrictions. While the abdominal wall and muscles are operated on during hernia surgery, the bowels and digestive tract remain untouched. Patients are recommended to eat a high-protein diet post the procedure as it helps to regenerate tissues, rebuild muscles, and quickly recover muscle strength. Alternative protein sources and even protein supplements are recommended for vegetarians.
Wound treatment and medication
Patients are advised to take pain medications if and only when they truly need them. Regardless of the type of anesthesia used, patients experience a minor rise in body temperature which may last for a day or so after the procedure, which is normal. After the operation, patients are encouraged to bathe at least once a day. The wound/incision will not be affected if you use clean water. The wound is covered with a see-through plastic covering that can be peeled off after 3-7 days. There may be slight bruising, hardness, or a 'rope' sensation beneath the incision (after an open mesh repair). Swelling and bruises in the vaginal area may also occur. All of these should pass with time, and the patient will feel at ease. Patients may still feel the hernia after surgery, but this sensation improves over time.
Resuming daily activities and fitness routines
You will be advised against visiting the gym immediately following surgery. But once you are on a steady path to recovery, you will slowly be able to resume all your daily activities. Patients can resume their normal activities on the third day post a hernia repair. Activities such as walking on a flat surface, climbing a few steps, using the toilet, and getting out of bed independently are considered daily or normal activities. Within a week, you can leave the house, go for outdoor walks and even drive short distances. Patients are usually urged to start running or walking after three to four weeks. After undergoing general surgery in Dallas or any other location, it is recommended to consult a general surgeon before beginning any weight-training workouts. Generally, young patients who are used to weight training can return to the gym and resume weight training after three months.
Final words
While the notion of abdominal surgery may be daunting, it's vital to realize that hernia surgery is a common and highly successful treatment. It's one of the most common types of surgery in the United States, with an estimated 800,000 procedures performed each year. The role of general surgery consultations can never be overemphasized during the recovery period. You can easily find reputable doctors online when considering general surgery in Dallas.
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