Dr Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Registered with Gujarat Medical Council, Reg. No. G-38738
Hernia Surgeon · Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
In short
- Yes, in most cases. Sleep apnoea does not stop a planned hernia repair, but the anaesthetist must know so breathing is watched closely.
- Bring your night-time breathing machine, mask and tubing to hospital. Use it every time you sleep after the operation, even for short naps.
- Loud snoring with pauses in breathing may be untested sleep apnoea. Tell the team, as a check may be advised before a planned repair.
Sleep apnoea means the throat closes again and again during sleep. Breathing stops for a few seconds, then starts with a snort. Many people with it also need a hernia repair.
This page explains why it matters for the operation, and what you can do to help.
Why it matters for anaesthesia
Anaesthesia and some painkillers relax the throat muscles. In a person with sleep apnoea, the throat can close more easily.
The anaesthetist plans for this. They may choose the type of anaesthesia, the breathing tube and the pain relief with your apnoea in mind.
Sleep apnoea around a hernia repair
Sleep apnoea around a hernia repair
| When | What to do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| At the first review | Say you have sleep apnoea or snore loudly | The anaesthetist plans ahead |
| Before surgery | Bring your sleep study report | Shows how severe the apnoea is |
| Day of surgery | Bring your machine, mask and tubing | You will need it after waking |
| After surgery | Use the machine for every sleep | Keeps the airway open |
| At home | Have someone with you the first night | Help is close if breathing is noisy |
Have sleep apnoea and a hernia that needs repair? Bring your sleep study report and your machine settings.
If you have never been tested
Many people have sleep apnoea and do not know it. Signs include loud snoring, pauses in breathing that others notice, waking tired and falling asleep in the day.
Tell the team if this sounds like you. For a planned repair, a sleep test may be advised first. A stuck or painful hernia is treated without waiting.
Your breathing machine
If you use a machine at night, bring it with you. Bring the mask, tubing and power lead too.
Use it whenever you sleep after the operation. This includes short naps in the day. The first two or three nights matter most.
If your mask does not fit well or the machine is old, get it checked before the operation date.
Pain relief and going home
Strong painkillers can make you sleep deeply and breathe less. So the team uses other pain relief first, such as numbing the wound and regular simple tablets.
Many people still go home the same day. Some are kept overnight so their breathing can be watched. Have an adult with you on the first night at home.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have hernia surgery if I have sleep apnoea?
Yes, in most cases. The anaesthetist plans around it. Tell the team early so they can prepare.
Should I bring my breathing machine to hospital?
Yes. Bring your machine, mask and tubing. Use it whenever you sleep after the operation, including short naps.
I snore loudly but have never been tested. Does it matter?
Tell the team. Loud snoring with pauses in breathing or daytime sleepiness may need a check before a planned repair.
Can I go home on the same day?
Often, if the apnoea is well treated and you use your machine. Some people are kept in overnight to be watched.
Why are some painkillers used with care?
Strong painkillers can make you sleep deeply and breathe less. Other pain relief is used first where possible.
Related pages
The main page on this site is hernia surgery in Ahmedabad. These cover the neighbouring questions.
Where to find us
Dr Harsh Shah, MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
Bring your reports. Second opinions are welcome.