Have you recently had your hernia surgery? Then, the dos and don’ts you must follow post-surgery can be very confusing for you. And the question that most people have is, “Can I travel after hernia surgery?”
Most people don’t know whether they can travel after a hernia surgery. So, if you want to know whether you can travel or fly after the surgery and learn how to prevent it from reappearing, read this article.
Can I travel after hernia surgery?
The answer to this question mainly depends on the level of your hernia surgery. If you had a minor hernia surgery, you can rest for some time and get discharged home on the day of the surgery.
Traveling is okay, but it is best to be cautious and careful during traveling. Don’t drive and ask your family or friends to drive instead.
But, if you had a major surgery, traveling should be strictly avoided for a few days. You will be asked to stay and rest in the hospital for at least two days after a major surgery. Your doctors also advise you to abstain from heavy lifting or strenuous exercises and wear comfortable clothes after hernia surgery for a few weeks.
Can You Fly After a Hernia Surgery?
No, most doctors don’t recommend flying immediately after a hernia surgery. Your body needs time to recover from the surgery. The cabin pressure in the plane will also be different from the pressure on the ground. This can cause issues like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), infections, etc.
Most airlines won’t allow you to fly immediately after surgery or unless you have your doctor’s approval. So, your doctor decides whether you and your body are capable of flying or not.
What are the risks of flying with a hernia?
There are two main reasons doctors don’t recommend flying for a few days or weeks after hernia surgery.
- The first is carrying or moving your luggage. If you are flying, you might be required to move your luggage during check-in and boarding. This is not recommended after a hernia surgery as it can strain your muscles.
- The second reason is the plane’s cabin pressure. Even if you evaded the first cause by having your family move your luggage, you can’t escape the plane’s low cabin pressure.
It can cause gasses in your body and organs, making them expand in size. This can enlarge the hernia and cause bowel blockage or even hernia strangulation.
What happens if your hernia worsens while traveling?
Your doctor will allow you to fly when your condition has stabilized. But sometimes, your condition might worsen when you are flying. It can also be life-threatening if immediate medical attention is not given. During such cases, it is best to use a medical flight and visit the Best Hernia Surgeon as soon as possible.
How to prevent hernia from coming back after the operation?
This is a common concern in many patients undergoing hernia surgeries. Some hernias are notorious for reappearing sometime after surgery. Here are some measures you can take post-surgery to prevent hernia from reappearing.
- Strictly follow the diet After the Hernia Surgery according to doctor or dietician has drafted for you.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for some days or weeks after the surgery.
- Protein helps with faster tissue healing. Ensure your diet is high in protein.
- Intake high-fiber and fluids to prevent strain while using the restroom.
- Strictly avoid smoking and excess alcohol consumption.
- Keep your body weight in check.
Conclusion
A Hernia Health education is needed When you undergo a Hernia Surgery, Whether you can travel or not after a hernia surgery depends on your condition and your doctor’s approval. Always consult your doctor if you wish to travel and take the necessary precautions to avoid complications during your journey.
Your health is more important than anything. So, take care of your body and focus on recovering after your surgery.
FAQs
Most patients feel well enough to resume daily activities, such as driving and returning to work within a few days. However, it is best to limit activities to two weeks to allow for sufficient recovery. Patients should not exercise or undertake any heavy lifting for the first two weeks following hernia surgery.
Patients should follow the following restrictions to allow proper recovery after a hernia surgery.
- No strenuous exercise or heavy lifting
- No smoking or drinking
- No intake of unhealthy foods like processed or junk foods
Though most doctors restrict strenuous activities, you can do some basic activities like walking, climbing stairs, mowing the lawn, etc. these mild exercises are even good for your body as it keeps you from following a sedentary lifestyle.
