Patient Guide

What is Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Hernias most commonly occur in the abdomen, but can also appear in the upper thigh, belly button, and groin areas. A hernia does not get better on its own and surgery is the only permanent cure.

When to Consult a Surgeon?

You should consult a surgeon if you notice:

A visible bulge or lump in the abdomen or groin
Pain or discomfort, especially when bending, coughing, or lifting
A bulge that becomes more prominent over time
Any hernia symptoms that are worsening
Emergency: Severe pain, vomiting, or a hernia that becomes hard and cannot be pushed back

What Tests Are Needed?

Before hernia surgery, your doctor may recommend the following tests:

Physical Examination: The surgeon will examine the hernia site
Ultrasound: To confirm the diagnosis and assess the hernia
Blood Tests: CBC, blood sugar, kidney function, liver function
ECG: For patients above 40 years or with heart conditions
Chest X-Ray: To assess lung function
CT Scan: For complex or large hernias

Before Surgery Guide

1 Week Before

Stop smoking and alcohol consumption
Avoid blood-thinning medications (as advised)
Maintain a healthy diet
Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery

1 Day Before

Fast for 6-8 hours before surgery (no food or drink)
Take a shower and clean the surgical area
Get a good night's sleep
Pack a small bag with essentials

Morning of Surgery

Do not eat or drink anything
Take regular medications with a small sip of water (if advised)
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes
Arrive at the hospital on time

What to Bring

Insurance documents and ID proof
Previous medical records and test reports
List of current medications
Comfortable clothing for discharge

Surgery Day Guide

1

Admission

Complete hospital admission formalities and paperwork.

2

Pre-Op Preparation

Vital signs check, IV line insertion, and surgical site preparation.

3

Anesthesia

General anesthesia is administered for laparoscopic surgery.

4

Surgery

The laparoscopic repair takes 30 minutes to 2 hours.

5

Recovery Room

Monitoring in the recovery room for a few hours post-surgery.

6

Discharge

Most patients are discharged the same day or next morning.

After Surgery Recovery

First Week

Rest and avoid strenuous activities
Take prescribed pain medications
Keep the wound clean and dry
Walk short distances daily
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 2-3 kg
Shower after 48 hours (keep incision dry)

Weeks 2-4

Gradually increase activity level
Return to work (desk jobs)
Continue walking regularly
Avoid heavy lifting (more than 5 kg)
Attend follow-up appointment

Weeks 4-6

Resume most normal activities
Light exercise can begin
Driving is usually permitted
Heavy lifting restrictions are gradually lifted

Long Term

Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid smoking
Use proper lifting techniques
Regular follow-ups as advised

Diet After Surgery

Foods to Eat

High-protein foods (eggs, fish, chicken, lentils)
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Whole grains (oats, brown rice)
Plenty of water (8-10 glasses daily)
Fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation
Yogurt and probiotics

Foods to Avoid

Carbonated drinks (cause gas and bloating)
Spicy and fried foods
Heavy, greasy meals
Large portions
Constipating foods (white bread, cheese)
Alcohol and smoking

Activity Restrictions

Activity	Week 1	Weeks 2-3	Weeks 4-6
Walking	Short walks	Normal walking	Unrestricted
Driving	No	Short distances	Unrestricted
Desk Work	Rest	Can resume	Unrestricted
Heavy Lifting	No lifting	Max 5 kg	Gradual increase
Exercise	No	Light stretching	Moderate exercise
Sexual Activity	Avoid	When comfortable	Unrestricted

Warning Signs After Surgery

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

Fever above 101 F (38.3 C)
Increasing pain or swelling at the incision site
Redness, warmth, or pus from the incision
Bleeding from the incision
Difficulty breathing
Persistent nausea and vomiting
Inability to pass gas or have bowel movements
Severe abdominal pain

Emergency Contact: +91 82641-60001 (Available 24/7)