Home Remedies for Hernia

Home measures can ease symptoms and lower the chance of a hernia getting worse, but they cannot repair it. A hernia needs a doctor's review.

What may help

• Avoid heavy lifting and straining. Use proper technique, bend your knees and ask for help.
• Prevent constipation: eat plenty of fibre, drink enough water and do not strain on the toilet.
• Treat a persistent cough and quit smoking.
• Keep a healthy weight.
• Support when needed: a doctor may suggest a supportive belt or truss for short-term comfort, for example while awaiting surgery. It does not cure the hernia.
• Press a cough gently: hold the area with your hand when coughing or sneezing for comfort.
• For hiatal hernia and reflux: eat smaller meals, avoid lying down for 2 to 3 hours after eating, raise the head of the bed and avoid late-night meals, spicy food, alcohol and smoking.

What not to do

• Do not try to force a hernia back in if it is painful, firm or discoloured
• Do not massage or heat a painful hernia
• Do not delay care for a hernia that suddenly becomes painful

For children

Do not tape or bind a baby's belly or apply a coin or home remedy over an umbilical hernia. See a paediatrician. An infant with a hard, tender bulge, vomiting or crying inconsolably needs urgent care.

Call 112 or 102 for

A hard, painful hernia that cannot be pushed back, with vomiting, fever, a swollen belly or dark red skin.

Key point

Reduce strain and see a doctor. Do not treat a painful hernia at home.

Before your appointment

Note when you first noticed the bulge, whether it goes in when you lie down, and what brings it on, such as lifting, coughing or straining. List any pain, vomiting, constipation or urinary problems, and past surgeries. Bring your medicines, including blood thinners, and past reports. Ask about repair options, recovery and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.