one week post op question - help please!

Hi - I am one week post op for gastric bypass surgery, and am finding I am having more and more questions as time goes by! First, what would it take to rip or tear inside or outside sutures? I developed a dry cough today and have had coughing jags that are killers. My incisions just kill me every time I cough and I'm scared to death I've ripped something! Also, what type of pain relievers can we take? At this point, the oxycodine prescribed to me is doing more harm than good. I've tried children's tylenol, but you have to take the whole bottle! And it is full of sugar! Also, can I take basically any type of pill if it cru**** I know you're thinking why am I not asking my doctor all of this. Long story - I'd just appreciate anyone's input "who has been there". Thanks for your help!

I understand the coughing....I swore I had ripped open my incision when I sneezed it hurt so bad and continued hurting for sometime but it didn't and my doc said it would take a lot to rip that incision. As for pain meds can't help ya i wasn't in pain and didn't take any.

Hi, I have a list of Over the counter meds we can and cannot take. If you're interested I can e mail it to you. Just let me know!! Congrats on the surgery!!! Jo Ann

Hi Karyn, Hold a pillow snugly against your abdomen if you are going to cough or sneeze - that will help some. Take adult Tylenol (regular or Extra Strength) and crush, chew or dissolve the tablet (do NOT crush or chew any time-release formula!!!) HTH, Kristen

Hope things are going well. My profile has lots of information that may be helpful for you. I agree with the pillow, it works like a splint and helps with the pain. No lifting of 15 lbs for a month. Listen to your body. Coughing is good, a must to bring up gunk from your lungs. Welcome to the losers bench!! blessings, Tami

Do not take just any type of pill. A week after my surgery I had my period and serious cramps so I dissolved midol and drank it. Doing that sent me to the hospital with the worst pains ever!!! There are a lot of pills you can no longer take. Talk to your doctor before trying anything or you may really screw your self up!