The best painkiller for a hernia would depend on the severity of your pain and the hernia itself. Your doctor will likely begin with over-the-counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen, to provide some relief.
If your pain doesn’t improve enough with these, your doctor may prescribe a stronger, prescription-strength NSAID or opioid-based medication. Gabapentin or pregabalin may also be prescribed for nerve pain associated with a hernia.
In certain circumstances, such as severe, persistent abdominal pain, a doctor may even suggest a short course of oral steroids to help reduce the inflammation.
At the same time, it’s important to understand that painkiller medications only treat the symptoms, not the hernia itself. Your doctor will want to assess the hernia and work with you on a treatment plan, if necessary.
Surgery is often the best choice for larger, more serious hernias, where painkillers would only provide short-term relief.
How can I get instant relief from a hernia?
Unfortunately, there is no way to get instant relief from a hernia; treatment for hernias requires either surgical repair, or in some cases, the use of a hernia truss. If your hernia is causing pain and discomfort, then the best thing to do is to seek medical attention as soon as possible so that the cause can be properly diagnosed and a suitable treatment plan can be determined.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen to help alleviate pain and discomfort from the hernia. Other non-surgical measures your doctor may suggest might include: wearing a hernia truss or strap; applying a cold pack to the affected area; and avoiding activities that may increase abdominal pressure, such as lifting heavy objects.
In serious cases, surgery is often the only way to effectively resolve a hernia, and the type of surgical procedure will depend on the type and severity of the hernia.
How do you temporarily relieve a hernia?
The best way to temporarily relieve a hernia is to avoid activities that cause or aggravate its symptoms. If you must lift a heavy item, use proper lifting techniques and wear a supportive belt or hernia truss.
You should also avoid straining when having a bowel movement, and avoid activities that put too much pressure on the abdomen such as lifting heavy weights.
Your doctor may also recommend applying an over-the-counter topical analgesic to the affected area. A cold pack may also be helpful, as this may reduce inflammation and help to alleviate some of the symptoms.
Diligent use of pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen can help to alleviate discomfort and provide temporary symptom relief.
Another helpful form of temporary hernia relief may come in the form of dietary modification. Avoiding foods that cause gastric upset and bloat can reduce the pressure on the abdomen, helping to alleviate some of the discomfort.
Finally, for severe cases of hernia, your doctor may recommend a hernia belt, which provides external support to the hernia and prevents it from getting any worse. However, even if you wear a hernia belt, the underlying cause of the hernia (whether due to a medical condition or physical activity) must be identified and addressed.
If the hernia can be attributed to a medical condition, such as an undiagnosed chronic cough or obesity, it is important to seek the help of a doctor in order to have the situation addressed properly.
What can I drink for hernia pain?
When dealing with hernia pain, it’s important to focus on your diet and lifestyle. Generally speaking, you should try to avoid or limit foods that are high in trans fats, saturated fats, processed sugars and alcohol.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding straining from lifting can help reduce the risk of worsening hernia pain.
When it comes to what drinks to consume for hernia pain, it’s important to choose beverages that provide a healthy balance of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. This may include electrolyte-rich beverages such as coconut water, along with fruit and vegetable juices.
Additionally, herbal teas, such as ginger and chamomile tea, can help soothe the digestive system and reduce hernia-related pain. Mineral water and ginger ale are also good choices as they are easy to digest and contain no sugar or artificial ingredients.
Lastly, you may supplement your beverage intake with broth, which can help to provide additional hydration and support digestion.
Can you put a heating pad on a hernia?
No, it is not advised to put a heating pad on a hernia. Hernias involve weakened tissue and/or muscle, which can be further damaged by the application of heat. Additionally, heat can increase the swelling of the hernia area and cause further discomfort.
The best way to handle a hernia is to seek medical attention from a doctor so it can be examined, diagnosed and treated properly. Depending on the severity of the hernia, the doctor may recommend surgery.
Alternatively, the doctor may suggest lifestyle changes or wearing a truss to help support the hernia while it heals. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and avoid putting any type of heating pad or device on the hernia.
What causes a hernia to flare up?
A hernia can flare up due to a variety of factors including excessive strain, muscle weakness, underlying medical conditions, improper lifting techniques, constipation, smoking, or even pregnancy. Excessive strain and muscle weakness can cause the internal tissue that lines the abdominal cavity to weaken and tear, allowing the internal organs to push outwards and create a hernia.
Improper lifting techniques can also contribute to hernia flare-ups as the extra strain on the abdominal wall can increase the risk of hernias developing or existing hernias to become worse.
Underlying medical conditions such as chronic coughs, urinary tract infections, or chronic constipation can also cause hernias to flare up. The coughing or straining associated with these conditions can increase pressure on the abdominal wall and lead to hernia formation or flare ups.
Smoking is another known risk factor for hernia flare-ups, as smoking can increase the risk of muscle weakness due to nicotine’s effects on muscle fibers.
Lastly, additional pressure on the abdomen due to a pregnancy can contribute to hernia flare-ups, particularly around the period of delivery when strained abdominal muscles can cause a hernia to become worse.
Does heat help with hernia pain?
Heat can be a helpful tool for managing hernia pain. Applying heat to the hernia area can help reduce muscle spasms, increase circulation, and reduce stiffness. Heat therapy can also help increase your range of motion and speed up healing.
Heat should be applied for periods of 15-20 minutes with breaks in between, 3-4 times per day. If pain persists, do not apply more heat and consult a doctor. Additionally, applying ice to the hernia area can bring down inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
Be sure to wrap an ice pack in a cloth to protect your skin before applying it.
How does hernia pain go away?
Hernia pain can largely be managed or alleviated using conservative methods including rest, ice, compression, elevation and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. When the pain starts, it is important to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity and constipation, which can all worsen hernia pain.
It is also important to talk to a doctor to determine the cause of the hernia pain. Depending on the cause, a doctor may recommend more aggressive management such as prescription medications, physical therapy, targeted exercises, wearing a supportive hernia belt, surgery, or a combination of these methods.
Generally, the aim of these treatments is to help the hernia reduce in size, minimize the pain, and reduce the risk of damage or a more serious hernia-related problem.
Can a hernia be treated with medication?
Yes, in some cases, a hernia can be treated with medication, although it is typically recommended to treat hernias with either surgery or a non-surgical approach. Medication is usually recommended as a short-term treatment while awaiting a more definitive treatment.
For stress, reducer hernias, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to help reduce pain and swelling, as well as improve healing. Other medication-based treatments may include diuretics for those with hernias caused by ascites (excess fluid in the abdomen) or antibiotics for those with hernias caused by an infection.
Additionally, medications such as muscle relaxants, analgesics, and even dietary supplements may be recommended to help decrease inflammation caused by the hernia. However, it is important to discuss all options carefully with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for each individual case.
How do you treat a hernia without surgery?
Treating a hernia without surgery is possible in some cases, depending on the type and severity. Generally speaking, it is recommended to discuss all treatment options with a doctor or healthcare provider.
Some treatment options that may be considered include:
1. Avoiding activities or heavy lifting: It is important not to push yourself too hard or irritate the hernia by straining. Instead, avoid activities that could result in increased abdominal pressure, such as lifting heavy objects or long periods of standing.
2. Wearing a truss or belt: Wearing a truss or belt can provide extra support to the abdominal wall and keep the hernia from worsening.
3. Anti-inflammatory medications: Pain medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help ease hernia pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Physical therapy: Strengthening the abdominal and core muscles can help prevent worsening of the hernia and can provide some relief from the symptoms.
5. Changes in diet: Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fiber and water can help keep the hernia from worsening. Certain foods and drinks may also worsen the symptoms, so adjustments to diet may be necessary.
6. Herbal remedies: Herbal remedies such as Japanese pagoda tree, horse chestnut, and white horehound extract can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with hernias.
Ultimately, the best course of action is to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with your doctor or healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause of your hernia and develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your individual situation.
What helps get rid of hernia?
There are both surgical and non-surgical options for treating a hernia. The type of treatment depends on the size and severity of the hernia, whether you are experiencing symptoms, and your overall health.
Non-surgical treatments for a hernia can include: wearing a supportive beltor truss to keep the hernia from protruding, avoiding any activities that make the hernia worse, maintaining a healthy body weight, changing certain habits or activities that may have caused the hernia.
When non-surgical treatments don’t work, surgery may be recommended. Depending on the type of hernia, the surgery options include open surgery and laparoscopic surgery, or keyhole surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure done using a few small cuts, and is generally considered a better option when compared to open surgery as it is less painful and has a shorter recovery time.
Besides surgical options, you may also want to consider complementary therapies such as massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic care to help speed up the healing process. Supplements such as magnesium and vitamin E may also help in reducing swelling, pain, and increase the effectiveness of your other treatments.
It is important to seek medical advice from a doctor before starting any treatment for a hernia, and follow their advice to ensure a faster and successful healing process, and prevent further complications.
When should you go to the ER for a hernia?
If you think you may have a hernia, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. While some hernias may not require medical attention or treatment, the majority do, and they can become worse or lead to other complications if left untreated.
You should go to the ER if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms: sudden, severe abdominal pain; a feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen; difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement; vomiting; or fever.
You should also seek medical attention if your hernia suddenly becomes larger or if the area looks red, feels tender, or you feel any pain or discomfort in the area. Additionally, it is recommended to go to the ER if you have a hernia that is blocking or strangulating, which generally occurs with incarcerated hernias.
Symptoms of a strangulated hernia include severe abdominal pain, fever, and tenderness. Treatment for hernias typically involves surgical repair.
Can you live with a painful hernia?
Living with a painful hernia can be difficult, but it is possible depending on the severity and type of hernia. If your hernia is small, minimally symptomatic and not likely to cause complications, you may be able to manage it without surgery.
Doing exercises and activities that do not put strain on your hernia can make living with it more tolerable. There are also treatments such as steroid injections, wearing a hernia support belt, taking anti-inflammatory medications, using ice and heat/cold therapy, and using bioelectric healing devices to relieve pain.
However, if the hernia is causing intense pain, is larger in size and rapidly growing, it is best to consult with your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery. Ultimately, whether or not it is possible to live with a painful hernia is dependent on the individual case.
What you shouldn’t do if you have a hernia?
If you are experiencing any symptoms of a hernia, it is important to make an appointment with your doctor. Avoiding medical attention can result in further complications, and can even pose a risk to your health.
When it comes to treating a hernia, it is best to avoid activities that will put strain on the affected area, such as lifting heavy objects, straining when having a bowel movement, and engaging in strenuous physical activities.
Depending on the severity of the symptom, your doctor may also advise against doing activities that require twisting or bending, as this can cause further discomfort.
In addition to physical activities, it is also important that you watch your diet closely and maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to prevent the hernia from worsening. High-fat and -fiber substances can have a negative impact in hernias, so it is recommended to reduce your intake of them.
Increasing the intake of fluids and a balanced diet can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with the hernia.
It is also important to note that if you are experiencing prolonged pain and discomfort, then it is best to see your doctor again, as this could be a sign of a serious underlying issue. Seeing your doctor without delay is essential to ensure that you receive the care and treatment needed before the hernia becomes serious.
Is Tylenol or ibuprofen better for hernia pain?
When it comes to treating hernia pain with medications, ibuprofen and Tylenol are both popular choices. In general, ibuprofen is the stronger of the two medications, providing more effective pain relief.
However, ibuprofen carries a greater risk of side effects, such as stomach upset and gastrointestinal bleeding, so it is important to speak to your doctor before taking it.
Tylenol is the milder of the two medications and is generally better tolerated by patients. It is better suited to those who have a sensitive stomach or cannot tolerate ibuprofen. Although Tylenol is not as effective as ibuprofen, it may still provide some pain relief in certain cases.
Ultimately, which medication is best for hernia pain depends on a number of factors such as the severity of pain, individual tolerance and any existing medical conditions. It is always important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medications.
