Post surgical pain

So, here I was thinking I'd aced this lapband surgery when late this afternoon I really started to feel tight.  Tight might not even be the word for it and maybe it's completely normal but I feel like there is a band inside of me (ok, no laughing you guys) preventing a deep breath.  I had surgery on Friday and have not done one thing I shouldn't have.  I've not eaten anything I shouldn't have, haven't done anything much at all.  So, what's up?  Any ideas?  Is this normal?  Am I simply adjusting to the band and feeling it after not taking any pain meds since last night?  I'd appreciate the wisdom of those who have gone before, with thanks.

I had the exact same feeling, and was told it was gas trapped from the surgery.  I described it to my surgeon as tightness as well, but I also felt a pressure - like  there was an elephant sitting on my chest.  He said it was completely normal.

Walking did seem to help a little.  I will be honest though - I was pretty uncomfortable for about a week and a half.  I don't say this to alarm you, but just so you're prepared.  It definitely did get better as the days went by.

Keep your doctor posted on this, but I had the same feeling you're describing.  For me it turned out to be gas.  When my husband called our doctor, he suggested gas-x strips (they melt on your tongue).  Some people say they don't make a difference.  At that point the doctor could have said, "Amy.  I want you to take this placebo" and I would have done it. 

Gas-x strips& walking around a lot was what worked for me.  Regarding your intake right now, you really want to be sipping.  Even if you feel like you can chug, just sip.  And no straws... you'll take in more air whenever you use a straw.  The other thing I found out (I was, "well duh!") that I will now admit was that my hubby was making my protein shakes in the blender.  Bad idea for a newbie.  That adds a lot more air to the drink.

Sip, Sip, Sip.... gas-x... walk, sleep in more of a sitting position, and if still uncomfortable, call your surgeons office just to make sure you are on track.  That's what they get the big bucks for.

It's a scary time to be postop when all this is new.  Good luck!  And I am soooo happy for you and your new journey!!!  It really is amazing!

Hey Ambelina,  Thanks for the advice.  I think I was drinking too fast because today I feel much better and have taken it easy today too.  The straw thing is great advice and thanks on that too.  I don't think we have dissolving gas-x in Canada but believe me, I'll be checking tomorrow.  Someone else recommended liquid tylenol and I've found that we do not have that here either.  We do however, have free lapband surgery, which makes up for the gas-x, right?  lol  The advice on this site in truly invaluable, especially as I live a 3 hour drive from my surgeon!  Good luck everyone.  Karol

Wow, not sure what I'd do without my liquid tylenol or dissolving gas-x strips.  What a bummer.  But then you're right  - the surgery was free!  Hmm... I had to pay for my surgery AND the gas-x/tylenol.  What a bummer! 

  But it was the best investment I ever made!  Glad you are feeling better!

had the same thing with pain radiating into my shoulders.. last two days have been an improvement.

Thanks everyone.  I'm feeling much better today.  I think maybe I was drinking too fast.  Mind you if I have to take in so much liquid per day and I can only drink 1/4 cup every half hour I'll be up all night!!  This reminds me of math class.  ;)