Post-Surgery

It is common during the first 24-36 hours after surgery to feel many aches and pains all over your body. It is common to experience backache, shoulder pain and a stiff neck as well as abdominal pain.
During your operation, it is possible you have been catheterized. It means that straight after the operation when you are at your most uncomfortable you do not have to worry about going to a toilet to pass urine; this will be simply pass into a bag at your side and be emptied regularly by the nurses. It will be removed after the first 24 hours and is painless.
As you shouldn't be lifting anything heavy, such as shopping, for a while it is important that you have a support network around the help out. If you live alone and this isn't possible ask your nurse for the details of the local support network that can help.
For hysterectomies, it is normally around six weeks before patients think about returning to work, however this will depend on the type of work that you do, for instance if you have to do heavy lifting or very physical work it may take a lot longer to recover fully enough to return.
Fatigue is very normal up to 3 months. You may still feel tired and exhausted after a normal day of activities even at 3 months or more post-op.
Pain, fresh blood or smelly discharge though, needs to be regarded as a sign that the doctor needs to be consulted.

Things which can help:

Light eating
To minimise the pressure on the body avoid large meals and avoid highly processed foods.
Appetite can be poor after surgery, try and eat very small light nutritious meals throughout the day (5-7 times a day) to maintain your blood sugar level.
Eat something when you take your pain medication, since they can upset the stomach and cause nausea.


Fluids
Drink a lot of water after surgery. Try and drink at least 8-10 cups of water, herbal teas and juices a day.


Positive attitude
A more positive attitude improves energy and can help you recover from surgery much faster.
Don't worry if you have been feeling strange several weeks after surgery. General anaesthesia can remain in the system for many weeks. Abdominal surgery will effect lifting, straining, bending, pulling. Emotional fluctuations are very common, with crying one minute followed by anger the next.


Light exercise
It improves the circulation, helps to improve moods and has been shown to improve recovery. Ask your doctor if there are any specific exercises that can be performed.


Bath
You should avoid any water hitting your incision. Take a few sponge baths initially, progressing to a shower.


Shoulder pain
Shoulder pain is a common side affect as the gas can pass from the abdomen through the body and can get trapped in the shoulder area, giving pain and stiffness of up to 2 days after the operation.


All material provided on the levelfooting web site is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health program.