Anyone can develop a hernia, which can be extremely painful if not treated. The minimally invasive techniques allow Dr. Sheppard and his team to perform Huntsville hernia repair with minimal risks or complications. The team also provides professional instructions on how to care for yourself to promote recovery and prevent hernias in the future.
An overview of a hernia
A hernia is a condition in which part of an organ or tissue pokes through a weakness or tear in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. There are several forms of hernias, including inguinal (groin), femoral (thigh), umbilical (belly button), and hiatal (upper stomach). Femoral and inguinal hernias are often due to repeated strain in the groin or abdominal areas and aging or weakened muscles. You may notice a visible bulge, pain, or discomfort and experience difficulty with bowel movements. Surgery is the most effective treatment for this disorder, which involves pushing the protruding tissue back into place and repairing the weakened muscle or tissue.
What to expect during a hernia repair surgery
A hernia repair is a surgical procedure to fix a hernia. The surgery typically involves an incision near the hernia, pushing the protruding tissue back into place, and repairing the weakened muscle or tissue. The type of hernia and your overall health will determine the kind of repair your doctor will perform. Before the surgery, you will typically have a physical examination and some tests to ensure you are healthy enough for the procedure and don’t develop any complications during the surgery. Your provider may also instruct you to stop taking certain medications and fast for a certain period before the surgery.
During the surgery, you will be under general anesthesia, which means you will be unconscious and unable to feel pain. The surgeon will create an incision near the hernia and push the protruding tissue back into place. Depending on your overall health, the surgeon may use sutures, mesh, or other materials to repair the weakened muscle or tissue. After the surgery, you will typically spend some time in the recovery room and be monitored for any complications. You may experience pain, swelling, and bruising near the incision site. Dr. Sheppard may prescribe pain medication to help alleviate the pain and promote recovery. He will also provide instructions on caring for the incision and when to follow up with the team. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, but it may take longer for some patients to recover.
Hernia prevention tips
It is crucial to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to prevent hernias. You may also need to avoid heavy lifting and straining, especially if you are prone to hernias or have a family history. Wearing a supportive belt or truss may also help to prevent hernias. Suppose you are experiencing symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the abdominal area. In that case, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out a hernia or other underlying condition.
Call Dr. Sheppard or schedule an appointment online for more information about hernias.