Are you wondering what precautions you should take after a hernia mesh surgery? Your doctor will give you a list of instructions to follow after a hernia mesh surgery. During the first week, you should move around slowly and carefully but don’t overdo it. Rest when you get tired and try to get plenty of sleep.
You should monitor your pain level and take your medication as prescribed. If you are in pain but were not prescribed medication or do not want to take prescription drugs, ask your doctor to recommend an over-the-counter medication.
Should I Exercise While Recovering From Hernia Mesh Surgery?
Your doctor will advise you on when to start exercising again. Your doctor may recommend light activities, such as taking short walks and increasing the distance over time.
Any type of exercise involving twisting, turning, pulling, and lifting weights should be avoided. These movements can increase pain and place more pressure on the hernia repair site.
Activities that place pressure on the hernia repair site may also increase the likelihood of hernia recurrence.
Should I Drive After Hernia Mesh Surgery?
Generally, patients are advised to avoid driving or taking public transportation immediately after hernia mesh surgery.
If you had surgery to repair a hernia in the abdominal area, you may not be able to make sudden movements to stop the car. Additionally, your prescription medication may cause drowsiness. So, you should not place yourself and other motorists at risk by driving while drowsy.
Wait until your doctor gives you the “all clear” before getting behind the wheel.
Should I Monitor the Bruising Around My Incision?
Bruising, swelling, or numbness around an incision is common after hernia repair. If you had surgery in the abdominal area, your doctor may recommend applying an ice pack around the incision area to reduce pain and swelling.
Depending on the type of hernia surgery you had, you may have bandages that your doctor needs to check. Do not remove the bandages without your doctor’s permission.
What If I Follow My Doctor’s Precautions but My Pain Worsens?
Chronic pain may be an indication of a complication with the hernia mesh. It is not unusual to have pain and discomfort after surgery. However, if pain continues after your follow-up appointments or if you have severe pain after your hernia mesh surgery, you should schedule another appointment with your doctor.
Complications can occur after hernia surgery, such as infection and hernia recurrence, according to Johns Hopkins Comprehensive Hernia Center. Chronic pain also increases the risk of a hernia returning.
In addition to chronic pain, hernia mesh patients can suffer bleeding, bowel obstruction, and other serious injuries, according to reports filed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Some patients have filed lawsuits against hernia mesh manufacturers for complications they experienced from failed hernia mesh products.
Contact the Law Offices of Ogle, Elrod & Baril, PLLC for a Free Case Review
If you have been injured by hernia mesh products, we can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Call the Law Offices of Ogle, Elrod & Baril, PLLC today 865-546-1111 to schedule a free consultation.