Edmonton Senior Health | October 29, 2019
Seniors and Hernias | More than 10% of the population will have a hernia at least once in their life. A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue exits through an abnormal opening. There are various types of hernias, but most commonly they involve the abdomen.
The reason why seniors should notify their doctor in case they suspect they have a hernia is that this lump can turn into a medical emergency in the blink of an eye. Therefore, your loved one should contact their health provider if they notice a lump in the abdomen, groin, leg, or another area of the body. This lump can cause pain, but it doesn’t have to. It can also be soft or firm and it can vary in size as well.
When the trapped tissue loses blood supply immediate surgery is required. This condition known as a strangulated hernia is life-threatening, and the most common symptoms are fever, sudden intense pain, nausea, and vomiting. If your parents notice that their lump has become larger or has turned red or purple, they should immediately call their physician.
Doctors who are evaluating a hernia will usually do a physical exam and order an ultrasound or CT scan when necessary. If your loved one has a hernia, they should talk to their medical provider, see what type of hernia they have and find out whether they need surgery.
Your parents should also learn what to do in case their hernia gets worse, how to care for their hernia and, in case they require surgery, find out everything about the recovery process.
If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with retirement care, 24-hour care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, senior living transition services, and much more!
Comfort Keepers®’ are trained caregivers who help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).
Moreover, our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality: empathy. Empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs.
To learn more about senior care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office to discuss our unique service offering. If you live in Devon, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact Comfort Keepers at 780-465-4665.
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