Access information on common Hernia questions at Consumer Reports Health.

Hernia

Questions to ask your doctor

If you've been told you have a hernia, you may want to talk with your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask.

Questions about your diagnosis

What type of hernia do I have?
Why do I have a hernia?
Is it OK to push my hernia back into my abdomen?

Questions about your treatment

Do I need surgery right away, or can I wait?
What will happen if I don't have my hernia repaired?
How will you repair my hernia?
How many hernia repairs do you do each year?
What are the pros and cons of the different ways to repair a hernia?
Am I suitable for keyhole surgery?
What type of

anesthetic
An anesthetic is a chemical that blocks your ability to feel sensations like pain or heat. A local anesthetic blocks the feeling in a specific area of the body. For example, your dentist uses a local anesthetic like Novocaine in your gums so that you don't feel the pain of having a cavity filled. A general anesthetic makes you completely unconscious and is usually used only in a carefully controlled environment like an operating room.

anesthetic will I need?
What are the risks of surgery? How likely are they?
What happens if I've got a hernia on both sides of my groin?
How long will I need to stay in the hospital?
What's the risk that my hernia will come back?

Questions about what happens after surgery

Can I expect any problems or side effects after my operation?
How should I care for my wound? Can I get it wet?
How quickly can I get back to my usual activities (work, sport, sex, housework, shopping)?
Should I avoid doing certain things? How long should I avoid these for?
Do I need a check-up? When?
Are there things I can do to keep my hernia from coming back?

This information was last updated on Jan 09, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

The information on ConsumerReportsHealth.org should not be viewed as a substitute for a consultation with a medical or health professional. The information is meant to enhance communication with your doctor, not replace it. Consumers Union can not be liable for any loss, injury, or other damages related to your use of this information.

Your use of this information is subject to our User Agreement available at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org.