Blood clots

How long are we suppose to worry about a blood clot happening. I heard the first two weeks were the cructial time, anyone hear different? Also any one chewing gum yet or using straws yet. I remember the nurse telling us not to use or do either one? Don't really know why. Thanks for all replys.

WENT TO SEE MY SURGEON FOR MY 1 WEEK POST OP APPT YESTERDAY AND HE SAID THAT IF I WAS GOING TO HAVE A BLOOD CLOT IT WOULD HAVE ALREADY HAPPENED. BUT KEEP WALKING!!!! I CAN CHEW GUM, JUST DON'T SWALLOW IT AND THE STRAW THING....WELL I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS BECAUSE OF THE PRESSURE IT EXERTS WHEN YOU SUCK. (?) DOES THAT SOUND RIGHT. DONT KNOW FOR SURE WHEN I CAN START TO USE A STRAW AGAIN. TAKE CARE! AIKO

My surgeon said 4 weeks to be clear of blood clots. Just keep walking and you should be fine there. Both gum and straws cause you to swallow air which is uncomfortable, plus straws make you drink faster than you should.

First four weeks post-op are critical. I would even say 6 weeks. Don't WORRY about a blood clot. Just be up walking alot throughout the day and you'll be fine. We can't use straws because we'll drink too fast and we are supposed to be drinking slow, sipping actually. And they said chewing gum is a no-no because what if you swallow it and it plugs up your opening or something of your pouch??? Don't risk it! Breathmints are okay though. I've had certs and altoids lately and have been fine.

My dr. said keep walking and you can get blood clots up to 6 weeks.....I did read about a man who got a blood clot 3 weeks post-op and passed away...So make sure you walk...NO gum for the 1st year and NO straws forever.It only hurts you. hope this helps Janice 11 days post-op