Hi... I am supposed to be in for reversal surgery in the next 6 weeks and have come across... from reading on the net... that there is a good chance that I will develop a hernia after surgery. After the depression I went through with the colostomy, I'm hoping that this hernia thing is a minor hiccup...
Anyone out there that can put my mind at ease?
Thanks...
Steve
Hi Bajan, one of the best ways to prevent a hernia is to keep your core strong. I make sure to do core exercises every day. I've been told I have a small hernia, and I intend to do everything I can to keep it that way. I have a permanent ostomy, but even after reversal, the risk is there due to our surgeries. I know that depression—I went through it after being diagnosed with UC when it was out of control, and I felt out of control. Try not to be nervous about it. I know you'll get support from the good folks on here.
MeetAnOstoMate.org is the only place where people truly understand you. It's because everyone here has an ostomy.
Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even built long-lasting relationships.
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Hernias are a risk even without the reversal. Your abdominal wall is weakened by these surgeries. I don't know how much the reversal surgery will increase the risk, but my guess is the risk won't be much worse than it is now.
I know it's hard not to worry. I try really hard not to focus on negatives, but sometimes it still happens. However, I recommend that you make a conscious effort to set the negative thoughts aside. Have a good cry, then pick yourself up and get on with living. Negative thoughts have a mind of their own; they generate more negative thoughts, and it quickly spirals out of control. You won't be perfect at it, but the more you set the thoughts aside, the easier it becomes. Soon you will find moments of happiness, and that is worth all the effort.
Hey Steve, I had reversal about 18 months ago. Yes, there is a chance you may get a hernia after reversal, but people get hernias while they still have a stoma. I am no expert, but I do know that hernias develop from strain. So the key is to rest, don't rush into doing too much too soon, and listen to your body. I am a stonemason by trade; I still haven't returned to it. I am doing gardening and cleaning work instead. I feel my core is still not strong enough to return to my trade.
Everything takes time. Try not to think too much about what you can't control. I know it's easy to say and harder to do. But after reversal, don't think you are back to your old self and do something stupid and hurt yourself. Slowly, slowly, step by step, and you should be fine.
I plan to return to my trade this August. Try not to stress; all will be well. Any questions, feel free to ask. Take care.
