This topic is about someone dealing with two hernias and facing challenges in getting timely medical care due to a nurse strike. Here's a breakdown of the situation and some helpful advice:

The person has two hernias:
- A parastomal hernia around the current stoma.
- A rapidly growing incisional hernia at the site of a previous stoma.

Recent observations and concerns include:
- The incisional hernia is enlarging quickly, and there are changes in the abdominal skin.
- Significant pain is present, along with recurring episodes of fever, body aches, and flu-like symptoms lasting 3 to 5 days over the past four months.
- Due to a nurse strike, all appointments are delayed, and surgery is scheduled for an unspecified future date.
- The surgeon mentioned that the non-stoma hernia can be repaired, but the parastomal hernia repair has only a 50/50 chance of success.
- The person is considering pushing for an earlier consultation with their long-time stomal therapist.
- With summer approaching in a month, there is concern about the hernias worsening and limiting activities like playing basketball.

Additional information:
- The local GP has reached out to the surgeon’s office to expedite a review, but they are waiting for a callback. The surgeon will be away for two weeks.
- The current appliance used is a Coloplast SenSura shallow convex baseplate, as flat wafers are not tolerated since the stoma was re-created.
- The person has a history of three attempted reversals, bowel strictures, Crohn’s involvement, and multiple stoma formations.
- They volunteer at a local Ostomy Association and benefit from low-cost supply access in Australia.

Advice and insights from others:
1. Many ostomates and surgeons suggest delaying hernia repair until severe pain, obstruction, or loss of function occurs because repairs often have a high recurrence rate.
2. Some members choose to live with hernias until they cause major problems.
3. Post-reversal patients are advised that incisional hernias at the old stoma site are common, and being aware of this can help reduce anxiety.
4. Flu-like symptoms can be a sign of hernia complications, such as partial obstruction or inflammation, and persistent or worsening symptoms should prompt urgent medical review.
5. If surgery is necessary, be prepared for the possibility of more hernias being found and repaired than initially expected.
6. Parastomal hernia repairs have lower success rates than incisional repairs, with surgeons often quoting a 50% success rate, especially when mesh placement is challenging.
7. Until surgery, consider the following:
- Use a well-fitted support garment or hernia belt to reduce pain and prevent further enlargement.
- Avoid heavy lifting, sudden strain, and high-impact sports like basketball to slow the hernia's progression.
- Ensure the appliance fits securely; shallow convexity, like the Coloplast SenSura, can help maintain a seal over a bulge.
8. Persistent follow-up with the stoma nurse or colorectal unit, along with documentation of rapid growth, pain levels, and systemic symptoms, can sometimes help shorten waiting times.