Surgery Over, Now Onto Recovering

My three days in the hospital were rather uneventful. I found out I have a breathing problem...as in I forget to breath...my oxygen count would drop to almost 75 when I was sleeping, even with the cpap on. If I took some deep breaths I was fine again, but that stupid alarm was a pain in the butt! 

Initially I was on a PCA for pain meds, and I had to push the button every 8 minutes to get pain relief. The stuff was good, while I was awake, but I slept for 3-4 hours that first night and woke up in a lot of pain from not having received any pain meds for that amount of time. My suggestion would be to ask for something longer lasting for nighttime meds. The second day I was put on Roxicet which lasts 4 hours, so that really helped at nighttime.

Day 2 meant I could finally have liquids after they did a leak test on my new pouch. That helped me feel better, as my throat was really dry for most of the time. Chapstick is the best invention for surgical patients. Love the stuff.

I was released at 5:30 PM on day 3 and made the hour and a half journey home. The bumps in the road were not fun, but it was good to be home.

It's tough getting in and out of bed, but my recliner is a good spot for resting during the day when there will be no one here to help. I have been pushing myself a little too hard, probably, but I can definitely tell when I have gone too far.

I have not had any nausea, my only issue has been getting my lower GI working again. Ladies only should read this next line.

I also received my monthly guest to entertain after my surgery. I haven't had one for months...and this is the time it chooses to show up!

I know things will continue to improve, I'm getting all my fluids in and doing plenty of walking. I'll be sure to update with my recovery.

Rean 

Hi Rean - I had my surgery last Thursday and was discharged on Saturday.  I am amazed how good I feel.  The BM finally happened yesterday and that made a big difference.   Gas pains were the worst, but better now.  Tomorrow I get to start full liquids and I am really looking forward to the instant breakfast w/double strength milk.  I went back to work this mornings, half days this week.  

Keep up with the liquids and water you are doing great!  Cannot wait to see the scale move