Your Child's Hernia Repair: Returning Home

After a hernia repair, your child may have some pain that may need to be treated with over-the-counter pain medicine for the next few days.

It's normal if your child has a low fever and feels tired and nauseated.

Your child should feel better after a few days and will probably feel much better in 7 days.

For several weeks, your child may feel twinges or pulling near the surgery area when they move.

After going home, be sure that your child follows any instructions about diet or activity, and takes medicines as prescribed.

And be sure to follow any instructions for incision care.

Watch for any problems, and call your doctor if your child has problems such as new or worse pain, bleeding, or an incision that comes open.

Also call your doctor if you see signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness; red streaks leading from the area; pus draining from the area; or a fever.

And call your doctor if bright red blood soaks through the bandage, or if your child can't pass stools or gas, or is too sick to their stomach to drink fluids.

Get emergency help right away if your child passes out or is short of breath.

You know your child best, so call your doctor if you have any questions.

Giving good care after surgery can help your child feel better and recover sooner.