A hernia is a weakened area in the abdominal wall that allows the inside layer of the abdominal muscles to push through, according to LapSurg. The patient notices a bulging, sometimes painful area in the groin, under the belly button or near the site of a previous operation. If the bulge becomes large enough, a loop of the intestine can become trapped. The preferred treatment is surgical repair, but a truss or hernia belt may be used, if the patient is elderly or too ill for surgery. These devices hold the hernia in with a snug pad and belt.
Step 1
Visit your health care provider for an evaluation of the hernia. If there are any signs of bowel strangulation, such as fever, nausea, vomiting or enlargement of the abdomen, you may need immediate surgery to correct the problem, according to Sandra Nettina, R.N., M.S.N., author of the "Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice."
Step 2
Ask your health care provider if a truss is appropriate for your situation. Although a truss will not repair the hernia or prevent it from becoming larger, it can provide support and prevent pain if you are not able to have surgery, according to LapSurg.
Step 3
Ask your health care provider or medical equipment retailer to fit you for the truss. The truss should be snug enough to compress the hernia. If the device is too large, it will not prevent the hernia from bulging. If it is too small, it will chafe the skin, according to Nettina.
Step 4
Remove the truss at night. Lying in bed naturally reduces the hernia. Put it on before you get up in the morning.
Step 5
Clean the truss by wiping it; avoid immersing it in water.
Step 6
Contact your health care provider if the hernia becomes larger or shows signs of strangulation, such as nausea, vomiting, bloating or severe pain, says Nettina.
Tips and Warnings
- Take steps to avoid making the hernia larger. Avoid heavy lifting and excessive coughing. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables to avoid constipation. Lose weight if you are overweight, advises Drugs.com.
- A truss is not a substitute for surgery. Delaying surgery will place you at risk for strangulation of the bowel, a serious and life-threatening condition, according to LapSurg. Only use a truss if your health care provider recommends it. A truss can cause scar tissue around the hernia, making surgery more difficult, according to LapSurg.
Things You'll Need
- Truss, any type
References
- LapSurg: Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
- "Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice, 9th edition"; Sandra M. Nettina, M.S.N.; 2010
- Drugs.com: Hernia
