Why Am I Losing Weight After Hernia Surgery? Reasons & Tips


Methodology

Hernia is a common health condition but can be very painful, and you have to choose a surgical method to treat this painful condition. Also, people make resolutions to lose weight and follow a strict routine for a long time, but still, many cannot achieve their goals. Interestingly, many people lose weight after hernia surgery, which would have been good news if that had been the purpose. Even though not everyone experiences this condition, many get frustrated with their sudden weight loss. 

However, you should know that if you have lost a normal amount of weight, then it is fine, but if it is excessive, you should consult with your doctor. Here, we will explore some reasons for your weight loss after hernia surgery that will help you relax and take proper action to improve your overall health condition.

Get An Understanding Of Hernia And Its Treatment

Weight Loss After Hernia Surgery

A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue wall, often in the abdomen or groin. Also, it is one of the most common health conditions around the world. Moreover, not all hernias demand to be treated immediately, but if they are left untreated, they can cause pain, discomfort, and complications. Additionally, surgery becomes necessary if the hernia causes symptoms or poses risks of complications. 

Moreover, if you want to treat your hernia through surgery, you have three types to choose from open, laparoscopic, and robotic hernia surgery. While surgery can help you get rid of a hernia, you may also experience some side effects. Also, you will be at a higher risk of suffering from bruising or infections after the surgery. Additionally, you should know that not everyone experiences the side effects of hernia surgery, but some can notice weight loss.

What Are The Potential Reasons For Losing Weight After Hernia Surgery?

Your Doctor May Ask You To Avoid Certain Foods And Stick To A Specific Diet Routine

You have to take proper precautions before and after any type of surgery, including hernia surgery. Also, your doctor may restrict you from eating certain types of foods to manage your condition more efficiently.

Additionally, it is possible that you don’t want to eat because of the pain and hassle of the surgery. Thus, it is common sense that you will lose weight when you don’t eat food. However, this goes for a short period, and you will start eating everything when your condition improves.

You Do Not Perform Physical Activities After Surgery

You avoid physical activities before hernia surgery because it causes you pain, and you avoid physical activities after surgery because it is necessary for a few days or weeks. Thus, it is possible that you lose some weight after hernia surgery. However, you may think that not doing physical activities is a cause of weight gain and not weight loss, but you should know that you are also going through a medical and treatment process.

Medicines And Less Physical Activities Can Weaken Your Digestive System

Your body mostly relies on medicines during and after hernia surgery. Also, you do not eat properly and do not get involved in physical activities for a long time. All these reasons influence your digestive health and contribute to weakening your digestive system. Additionally, when your digestive system is not working properly, you can experience fluid loss, constipation, vomiting, etc. Further, they can be the reason for your weight loss after hernia surgery.

Your Body Needs More Energy To Repair

Your body remains in the healing state for a few days or weeks after hernia surgery. Also, it requires extra energy to repair your wounds or cuts that happen due to hernia surgery. Thus, your body burns extra calories, and at the same time, you take fewer calories through food after your hernia surgery. Hence, you can experience weight loss after your hernia treatment.

If You Are Suffering From Stress Or Anxiety

Hernia is a painful health condition in itself, and it can also lead to stress and anxiety. First, many people experience severe pain due to hernia. Then, the treatment of hernia causes discomfort in everyday lifestyle for a long time. 

Moreover, hernia surgery can cost you a lot, and it can be a concern if you are suffering from financial issues. Thus, there are a lot of reasons in your hernia treatment that can lead you to stress and anxiety. Finally, your stress and anxiety can be the reasons for your weight loss after hernia surgery.

What Should You Do To Manage Your Weight And Stay Healthy After Hernia Surgery?

You should listen carefully to your doctor and follow his/her guidelines in order to avoid serious complications. Also, you have to focus on your diet and eat nutritious foods because it is possible that you lose your appetite after surgery. Thus, you can include apple juice, vegetables, tea, and fiber-rich foods in your diet to manage your health during this time. Also, you should gradually get involved in physical activities, which does not mean you should lift weights but normal daily activities like walking. 

Moreover, you should manage your stress as it can increase the risk of weight loss after hernia surgery. Thus, you can learn meditation techniques and yoga to manage your stress, and you can also get help from professionals. Further, remember to drink a sufficient amount of water because it can help you manage your digestive system.

Also Read: What Causes Hernia In Men? Understanding Symptoms & Treatments

Final Words

Many people dream of losing weight, while many get worried when they lose weight after hernia surgery. Well, it is normal to get worried because sudden weight loss is not normal, and it can be a sign of major concerns. However, not everyone loses weight after hernia surgery, but some can experience this condition. Above, we have explained in detail the potential reasons for your weight loss after hernia surgery. 

Also, we have suggested effective ways to manage your weight and overall health after hernia surgery. Thus, do not get worried if you have lost fewer amount of weight because it will be managed over a short period. However, if you are losing excess weight, consult with your doctor.

Dr. Jun Ren is a dedicated and experienced registered dietitian and nutritionist who is committed to helping people achieve their health goals through personalized nutrition plans. With a passion for promoting healthy eating habits and preventing chronic diseases, Dr. Ren has been able to assist numerous clients in improving their overall quality of life.

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