Emergency Physician Questions Emergency Physician

Complications after hernia surgery

I recently haqd emergency hernia surgery it's been about a week. My stomach is extremely swollen and somewhat hard to the touch, the bruising is far worse in there is some bleeding happening from the incision. I am also nauseous and having hot flashes, and my stomach is red and hot to the touch as well. Should I be concerned?

Female | 42 years old
Complaint duration: 1 week

5 Answers

Yes, you need to make an appointment with your surgeon to reevaluate the wound. You may have a wound infection or something worse brewing internally or under the skin.
Yes call your surgeon or go to ER
There is to be expected mild bruising and swelling and pain after the surgery. Based on the timeline after your surgery there are concerns to be considered about. A post-operative infection is one. If you are feeling redness and warmth to your stomach along with hardness there is a concern about post-operative complications. We would likely do a CT in the ER with your complaints, especially after a surgery
Yes
Yes, there is some cause for concern in the symptoms you describe. Do you have a fever?  Have you been vomiting? Have you spoken to your surgeon about these problems? I would call your surgeon's office. and try and speak to her/him.  If you can't reach them, then go to the emergency department of the hospital where you had the surgery done (NOT an urgent care or a different hospital) and let the emergency department physician evaluate your post-operative problems and symptoms. Good luck.