Maintenance medications ... how are you managing them?

Hi, With surgery coming up Wednesday, I'm really trying to get my ducks all lined up, and I'd like to hear from those who take *maintenance meds* (for blood pressure, etc.). How are you taking your pills post-op? I was told I wouldn't be able to take pills post-op for 8-12 weeks, have changed one prescription to liquid-form, but the others aren't available in that form. Also, I take Lasix along with my blood pressure pills, to help manage fluid retention ... my GP said don't stop it, but it seems like it might be a cache-22 ... I'll be on a strictly fluid diet increasing fluid intake and risking more retention, but then, flip-side, if all I'm taking in is fluids, isn't there a possibility the Lasix will dehydrate me more quickly? I may be worrying over nothing, and I know that as I lose weight the retention problem will decrease, but that will take time, and for now ... this is bothering my mind. Advice anyone? MJBG

Great question. I too, switched to all tablets instead of capsules to get ready for the surgery. I bought a pill crusher and plan to crush those up and put them in a spoon of my pureed food or applesauce, ect. I also take lasix, and have wondered the same thing myself. One thing about lasix, is you can tell when you are "filling up" so I thought I would just take it PRN, as I would think as little fluid as we get, especiallly initially, that dehydration would be a big risk. If you do take it daily, then watch for the signs of dehydration. such as constipation, dry mouth, dry skin. And severe dehydration is when your skin "tents" in otherwords, you can pinch your skin on you arms and it will "stand up" or stay scrunched up.

I know, I was told to get my pills in liquid form too pre-op, but turns out, I can take regular pills post-op. They just need to be small. If they aren't small, I break them in 1/2 or crush them. You probably won't need Lasix post-op but ask the surgeon. When you are on an all liquid diet, you don't retain much water in your sytem to bloat you or anything. So just keep the meds you have, crush them in your sf juice or whatever and sip it down. Use a dixie cup (3 oz) so you don't drink too much at one time and sip it down.

Thanks again, both of you! Got a pill crusher today. I suppose I could always open the capsules and mix the contents the same as I would crushed pills. As for the Lasix, now I know what to watch for, I feel better. you all are great! MJBG