Post-Surgery Recovery: Walking, Pain, and Fluid Concerns After Hernia Repair

Is it advisable to walk regularly with an inguinal hernia wound of about 5 centimeters that has been present for one month?

Hello Doctor, I had surgery for an inguinal hernia (using traditional methods) at the beginning of May, and it has been almost two months since then.
Due to my high school graduation, I am currently working part-time, which mostly involves standing and allows for some walking, with minimal heavy lifting.
I would like to ask if occasional sharp pain at the incision site indicates that I might be straining it, and if so, what potential complications could arise from this? Additionally, I have heard that walking can promote wound healing.
Would you encourage me to walk more during work hours, or should I focus on standing to minimize strain on the incision?
Regarding swimming, if I swim in a pool for up to two hours, will it affect the incision after one month? Also, if I want to use upper body weight training equipment, does the absence of pain at the incision mean that I am not engaging the underlying muscles, and therefore I can continue using it? Lastly, I have noticed that there is still fluid at the bottom of the scrotum, even though it has been almost two months.
I had it checked by a urologist in the fourth week, who said it was normal, but it is now the seventh week and the fluid persists.
Could you please explain why this is happening? Thank you for your assistance.

A-Q, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/06/23

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Mild pain after surgery is a normal phenomenon.
After surgery, it is important to avoid heavy lifting, constipation, and coughing.
There is no need for significant changes in activity; swimming should be fine.
However, weight training equipment should be avoided for at least six months, as any exercise that increases abdominal pressure should be approached with caution.
The presence of "fluid at the base of the scrotum" may indicate that the hernia sac was not completely removed.
Nevertheless, even in such cases, it will gradually resolve over time.

Reply Date: 2015/06/23

More Info

Post-surgery recovery, particularly after an inguinal hernia repair, can be a complex process that varies from person to person. It’s great to hear that you are on the path to recovery, but it’s also understandable to have concerns about pain, activity levels, and fluid retention in the surgical area.

Firstly, experiencing occasional sharp pain at the surgical site is not uncommon during the recovery phase. This pain can be attributed to several factors, including the healing of tissues, nerve regeneration, and the body adjusting to the surgical changes. If the pain is brief and not accompanied by other concerning symptoms (like swelling, redness, or discharge), it is generally not a cause for alarm. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult your surgeon for further evaluation.

Regarding your question about walking and activity levels, light walking is indeed encouraged as it promotes circulation and can aid in the healing process. However, it is essential to listen to your body. If you feel pain while walking, it may be a sign that you are overexerting yourself. In such cases, it might be better to alternate between standing and sitting to minimize strain on the surgical site. Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities is crucial in the early stages of recovery to prevent complications.

Swimming can be a beneficial activity, but you should ensure that your incision is adequately healed before exposing it to water. Generally, if the incision is closed and there are no signs of infection, swimming for up to two hours should be fine. However, it’s best to consult your surgeon for personalized advice based on your specific healing progress.

As for using upper body weight training equipment, it is advisable to avoid any exercises that increase abdominal pressure for at least six weeks post-surgery. While you may not feel pain during upper body workouts, the tension and strain on your core can still affect the healing incision. It’s best to wait until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider before resuming any weight training.

The presence of fluid in the scrotal area, known as a hydrocele, can sometimes occur after hernia surgery. While it is often a normal part of the healing process, if the fluid persists beyond a few weeks or increases in size, it may warrant further investigation. It’s good that you have already consulted a urologist, but if the fluid remains after two months, you should follow up with your surgeon to ensure that there are no underlying issues.

In summary, while some discomfort and fluid retention can be normal after hernia repair surgery, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Engage in light activities like walking, but be cautious and avoid any movements that cause pain. Consult your surgeon regularly to ensure that your recovery is on track and to address any lingering concerns. Your health and comfort during this recovery phase are paramount, and professional guidance will help you navigate this process effectively.

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