For small hernias that do not cause pronounced symptoms, conservative treatment may be sufficient.:
- Follow-up: The doctor will examine the hernia regularly to monitor its size and any changes.
Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, quitting smoking, and limiting heavy physical activity can help reduce pressure on the hernia and prevent it from growing.
- Wearing a bandage: A bandage can support a hernia and reduce discomfort, but it does not cure it.
If conservative treatment is ineffective or the hernia enlarges or causes pain, surgical intervention may be required. There are two main types of hernia surgery:
- Open surgery: The surgeon makes an incision in the hernia area, returns the fallen tissues to the abdominal cavity and strengthens the peritoneal wall with mesh or sutures.
- Laparoscopic surgery: The surgeon makes several small incisions and inserts a laparoscope (thin camera) to examine the hernia. Then he uses special tools to return the fallen tissues and strengthen the peritoneal wall with a mesh.
The recovery time after hernia surgery depends on its size and the type of surgery performed. After open surgery, the recovery time is usually 4-6 weeks, and after laparoscopic surgery it is 1-2 weeks.
During the recovery period, patients are advised to:
- Avoid heavy physical activity
- Take painkillers
- Follow the doctor's instructions for changing bandages and wound care
- Gradually return to a normal diet and activity
Complications after hernia surgery are rare, but may include:
- Infection
- The bleeding
- Damage to surrounding tissues
- Recurrent hernia (loss of tissue through the peritoneal wall)
Although it is not always possible to prevent the occurrence of a hernia, there are several measures that can be taken to reduce the risk.:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding smoking
- Proper weight lifting
- Regular physical exercise
- Control of chronic cough and constipation
