Hernia Forum - Backpacking with inguinal hernia ?

Conditions and Diseases > Hernia Forum > Backpacking with inguinal hernia ?

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Q: Backpacking with inguinal hernia ?

asked by: jambot on October 13th, 2009

New User

I've had a mild inguinal hernia for about a year now, that I've been aware of it. I don't think it's gotten worse, or at least it hasn't gotten significantly enough worse for it to be noticeable. It is not painful and is easily reducible. I guess the worst you could say about it is that it is a bit of a nuisance and mildly uncomfortable.

Anyway, I'd like to go backpacking for a few days next month. How risky is this? Is backpacking a particularly bad activity for someone with a hernia?

I realize that you are not (necessarily) a doctor, that if I'm particularly worried about it I should ask a doctor, etc. etc.

Replies(1)

Dr. Robert Wascher , MD

replied on October 14th, 2009

All unrepaired hernias carry a risk of intestinal blockage or intestinal strangulation, including inguinal hernias (although the statistical risk of this happening is in the ~ 3 to 5% range). However, straining (including climbing hills and mountains with a heavy backpack) may increase the risk of these potentially life-threatening complicaitons of hernias.

My advice to my own patients with inguinal hernias is that they avoind lifting more than 20 pounds, as well as very stenuous physical activities, until they have undergone hernia repair, and have fully recovered from such surgery.

Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS

http://doctorwascher.com

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