What habits can help me prevent recurrent hernias?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 32 years old and I am operated on three times for a hernia two times on the left-hand side and one on the right side. First, a hernia was operated 20 years back and then seven years back. Both are on the left-hand side and last year on the right-hand side. Now, what should I do so that I never get operated again in the future for a hernia?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand that you suffered from a recurrence of a hernia. Inguinal hernia recurrence is a very traumatic experience for the patients and it is very unfortunate that you had to experience that. There are a lot of factors contributing to the recurrence and it has to be evaluated based on a patient-to-patient basis. However, there are some general precautions that a patient after undergoing hernia surgery should observe:

Avoid lifting heavy weights and physically strenuous activity for at least three to six months.
If you are suffering from constipation or increased straining while passing stool, contact your doctor for the same as it may precipitate recurrence.
Identify and consult your doctor regarding any condition that puts a strain on your abdomen. Also, the type of hernia surgery performed contributes to the rate of recurrence.

As I have already said, the cause and prevention of recurrence have to be evaluated on a patient-to-patient basis. So, feel free to consult us directly if you want to discuss this further.

Take care.