Chronic Pain From Hernia Mesh Surgery

Chronic pain from hernia mesh surgery is a type of pain that persists long after the surgery has been completed. It is often caused by complications related to the hernia mesh, such as infection or irritation.

Treatment for chronic pain from hernia mesh surgery may involve medications, physical therapy, or additional surgery to remove or repair the mesh. Working with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for chronic pain from hernia mesh surgery is essential.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are experts in hernia mesh lawsuits. The whole team is committed to holding people responsible for their negligence and helping those affected by defective hernia mesh get the needed assistance.

Why Choose Schmidt & Clark, LLP For Your Claim

• We have over 20 years of experience representing injured individuals in their claims against large corporations and government agencies.
• Our lawyers represent the victims of defective hernia mesh in the United States. 
• Our law firm will deal with every aspect of your case on your behalf and guide you through every stage of litigation.

Quick Summary

• It is essential to seek medical attention for chronic pain in order to be able to determine the cause and find effective ways to manage it.
• Know what activities or situations make the pain worse and the symptoms you experience. This will help identify the cause of the pain and help determine the most appropriate treatment.
• Explore your options for managing pain by trying medication, physical therapy, and alternative treatments such as acupuncture or mindfulness-based therapies.

What Does Chronic Pain Mean?

Chronic pain is usually referred to as the presence of pain or discomfort that did not occur before surgery and has existed for a minimum of 3 months after surgery. Although pain must last three months to be considered chronic, it can be much longer.

Various conditions, including injuries, illnesses, and surgeries, can cause it. Chronic pain can range in intensity and may be constant or intermittent. It can be challenging to manage and may interfere with daily activities and quality of life. 

Treatment for chronic pain may include medications, physical therapy, or other therapies. It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for chronic pain and address any underlying conditions that may be causing the pain.

Chronic pain is a complex issue, and management strategies may need to be tailored to the individual.

Related Article: Hernia Mesh Patch Lawsuit Update

What Does Acute Pain Mean?

Acute pain is a type of pain that is typically short-term and occurs suddenly in response to a specific injury or condition.

It is the body’s natural response to protect itself and alert the person to the need for medical attention. Acute pain is usually severe and can be sharp or dull.

Acute pain from hernia mesh surgery may be caused by the surgery itself or by any complications, such as infection or irritation.

Acute pain from hernia mesh surgery typically resolves once the underlying cause has been addressed, such as through treatment or healing.

Related Article: Side Effects of Hernia Repair Surgery

How Does the Pain Affect You

The pain from a hernia mesh surgery can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the surgery. Some people may experience minimal pain after the surgery, while others may have more significant pain. 

Pain after hernia mesh surgery may be acute, meaning it is short-term and occurs suddenly in response to the surgery or any complications that may occur. Acute pain from hernia mesh surgery may be severe and can be sharp or dull. It may be felt in a specific area or be more diffuse.

Sometimes, the pain from hernia mesh surgery may become chronic, meaning it persists for an extended period, typically longer than three months.

Chronic pain from hernia mesh surgery may be caused by complications related to the mesh, such as infection or irritation. Chronic pain can be challenging to manage and may interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

Acute and chronic pain can have a significant impact on your well-being and ability to function in your daily life in the following ways:

• Minimize your physical functionality in everyday tasks.
• Keep you from working.
• Leading to loss of energy and tiredness.
• Keep you from hanging out with family and friends.
• Leading to mental health problems like depression.

How Serious Can It Be?

How severe the pain can be after a hernia mesh surgery depends on several factors, including the type of hernia you have, the type of surgery you undergo, and your pain tolerance.

In general, most people experience some level of pain after hernia surgery. This pain may be mild to moderate in intensity and can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications.

Some people may experience more severe pain after hernia surgery, especially if they have a large or complicated hernia or underlying health conditions that make them more sensitive to pain.

What Is Responsible for Chronic Pain?

Several factors are responsible for chronic pain; they include:

• Chronic diseases
• Hernia Mesh Surgery
• Injuries
• Nerve damage
• Psychological factors
• Other medical conditions

Chronic Diseases

Chronic diseases, such as arthritis, cancer, and nerve damage, can cause chronic pain. For example, people with arthritis may experience chronic pain due to inflammation in their joints. In contrast, cancer patients may experience chronic pain due to the disease or its treatment. Nerve damage can also cause chronic pain, as damaged nerves may send abnormal pain signals to the brain.

Hernia Mesh Surgery

Hernia repair surgery can cause chronic pain. This may occur if the surgery is not successful in repairing the hernia or if the surgical mesh used to improve the hernia causes complications, such as infection or rejection.

Injuries

Injuries, such as broken bones, sprains, and strains, can sometimes result in chronic pain if they are not adequately treated or cause lasting damage to the affected area. For example, an injury that does not heal properly or results in scar tissue formation may cause chronic pain.

Nerve Damage

Damage to the nerves that carry pain signals from the body to the brain can sometimes cause chronic pain. This can occur due to injuries, surgeries, or other medical conditions affecting nerves.

Psychological Factors

Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to chronic pain, especially if they are not adequately treated. These conditions can affect how the body perceives and responds to pain, leading to chronic pain.

Other Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia, can cause chronic pain. Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and tenderness.

How Can a Hernia Mesh Cause Agony?

Hernia mesh can cause agony in several ways, such as:

• Rejection Or Infection Of The Mesh – If the body rejects the surgical mesh or if the mesh becomes infected, it may cause pain and discomfort. This can occur if the body’s immune system sees the mesh as a foreign object and tries to remove it or if bacteria infect it. Symptoms of rejection or infection may include redness, swelling, and warmth at the site of the mesh, as well as fever, fatigue, and pain.
• Scar Tissue Formation – The body may form scar tissue around the surgical mesh, which can cause pain and discomfort. This scar tissue may also restrict movement and cause other problems.
• Mesh Shifting Or Eroding – The surgical mesh used to repair the hernia may shift or erode over time, which can cause pain and discomfort. This may occur if the mesh is not correctly secured or the body’s tissue does not adequately incorporate the mesh.
• Nerve Damage – The surgery or the surgical mesh itself may cause damage to the nerves in the affected area, leading to chronic pain. This may occur if the nerves are damaged during the surgery or if the mesh puts pressure on the nerves.
• Failure To Repair The Hernia – If the surgery is not successful in repairing the hernia, it may continue to cause pain and discomfort. This may occur if the hernia is not fully reduced or the surgical mesh does not adequately support the weakened area of the abdominal wall.

Is It Your Doctor’s Fault?

It is not necessarily the doctor’s fault if you are experiencing chronic pain from a hernia mesh surgery. Hernia mesh surgeries are generally considered safe and effective, but some risks and complications can occur like any surgery.

Chronic pain after hernia mesh surgery may be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Scar tissue formation
• Infection
• Mesh migration or movement
• Allergic reaction to the mesh
• Nerve damage

In some cases, the hernia mesh itself may be the cause of chronic pain. Some types of hernia mesh have been associated with a higher risk of complications, such as infection or Hernia mesh failure. In these cases, removing the mesh and repairing the hernia may be necessary through a different surgical technique.

How Can You Manage Pain?

You can manage pain after hernia mesh surgery in these ways:

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe pain medications to help manage your pain. These may include over-the-counter options like acetaminophen (Tylenol), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, and more potent prescription pain medications.

Physical Therapy

Your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles in the affected area and improve your overall mobility. This may involve exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles and other techniques like heat or cold therapy.

Lifestyle Modifications

Changing your daily routine and activities may help reduce pain and improve your overall recovery. This may include avoiding heavy lifting or straining, taking breaks to rest, and using assistive devices like a cane or crutches.

Alternative Therapies

Some people find relief from chronic pain through alternative therapies like acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care.

When Do You Need to Get in Touch With a Personal Injury Lawyer?

You need to get in touch with a personal injury lawyer; if you have experienced complications or injuries resulting from a hernia mesh surgery. It may be appropriate to consult with a personal injury lawyer.

Some possible signs that you may need to get in touch with a personal injury lawyer include:

1. You have experienced severe complications or injuries as a result of the surgery
2. Your doctor has told you that the hernia mesh is the cause of your complications or injuries
3. You have incurred significant medical expenses as a result of the surgery
4. You have missed work or lost income due to your injuries
5. You are experiencing ongoing pain or suffering as a result of the surgery

Related Articles:

• Symptoms of a Defective Hernia Mesh Device
• Organ Tissue Perforation Related to Hernia Mesh
• Hernia Mesh Revision Surgery & Implications

See all related medical device lawsuits our lawyers have covered.

FAQs

1. How Common Is Chronic Pain After Hernia Repair?

The frequency of chronic pain after hernia repair surgery can vary depending on the type of hernia and the surgical technique used. A review of studies on the incidence of chronic pain after hernia repair surgery found that the rate of chronic pain ranged from 0% to 40%, depending on the survey.

2. Can Hernia Mesh Cause Chronic Pain?

Yes, hernia mesh can cause chronic pain in some cases. Chronic pain after hernia mesh surgery may be caused by scar tissue formation, infection, mesh migration or movement, an allergic reaction to the mesh, or nerve damage.

3. How Many Years Does Hernia Mesh Last?

The lifespan of hernia mesh can vary depending on the type of mesh and the conditions it is exposed to. Some types of hernia mesh are designed to be absorbed by the body over time, while others are meant to be permanent implants.

4. How Does Hernia Mesh Work?

Hernia mesh reinforces the weakened area of the abdominal wall and prevents the hernia from returning.

During hernia surgery, the surgeon will place the hernia mesh over the weakened area of the abdominal wall and secure it in place with stitches or special tacks. The mesh acts as a scaffold, providing support to the abdominal wall and helping to prevent the hernia from recurring

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Legal claims are currently being filed against many manufacturers of mesh devices for failing to warn patients and physicians of the health risks associated with defective hernia mesh products.

If you suffer from a severe hernia mesh injury or your loved one died due to defective hernia mesh, contact an experienced lawyer at Schmidt & Clark, LLP to discuss your legal options.

We are an experienced team of personal injury lawyers focusing on presenting plaintiffs in hernia mesh claims. Our hernia mesh lawyers handle numerous lawsuits nationwide and accept new cases in all 50 states.

References:

1. https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/surgery/hernia-care/chronic-pain-after-hernia-surgery
2. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17866-chronic-groin-pain-after-inguinal-hernia-repair
4. https://www.drugwatch.com/hernia-mesh/pain/#:~:text=Nerve%20Entrapment,-In%20his%20interview&text=Surgical%20sutures%20or%20mesh%20can,and%20pulls%20on%20the%20nerves.
5. https://www.winthropbariatrics.com/other-laparoscopic-surgery/hernia-repair/chronic-pain-after-hernia-repair.PHP
6. https://bostonhernia.com/faq/im-worried-about-chronic-pain-is-one-repair-better-than-another/