I'm on the losers bench!

I'm doing okay.  Surgery went smooth, and right on time.  But, in recovery, they had trouble getting my temperature up to normal, it stayed around 96 degrees, so while I was in and out of consciousness I kept waking up to them putting warm blankets on me- even on top of my head!  So, I was in recovery for about 3 hours instead of 1 hour, and no one came out to tell my hubby what was going on! He finally, after the second hour started asking questions and they told him what was going on. Now, I had open RNY, not laparoscopic, and ironically, it takes much less time, under an hour for the actual procedure.  My surgery was at 10:30, I should have been in my room no later than 1:00, but because of the complication with my temp I got there at 3:00.  I was still pretty out of it the first day, but they had me sipping water right away and up to go potty.  That was tough, the incision area was pretty sore.  I felt like I had done a million crunches.  I had a pain pump, and also a thin wire-like device that fed local anestetic right to my incision sight.  So, I had the long line incision, about 3 inches long, and one small "hole" to the side of it, where the JP drain was inserted.  Now, that was an experience, when they yanked that thing out! I knew it would feel weird, and hurt a bit, but that it would be over in seconds- but I was not expecting that feeling at all! It felt like the thing was 3 feet long!  haha  And, what really surprised me is that they don't sew that shut, or glue it or something, they just leave it open and cover it with a dressing.  But, it has not hurt me even once.  I just keep it clean, and change the bandage every day, and it's starting to "solidify", it should scab in a few days, I would think. I went home on Wednesday, and by then I was ready to get out of there, so tired of getting woken up every hour for vitals and such.

 My steristrips over the incision are already starting to come off-come loose. And, last night I was really itchy while I was sleeping, and I woke up realizing what I was itching at- and I ended up taking off about half of them!  No problem, the incision line is perfectly clean and smooth, I didn't do any damage.  But, I was so afraid to look when I got to the bathroom!

I've been having a hard time getting all of my fluids in, and all of my protein.   I'm lucky if I get 500 calories a day, and 40-50 grams of protein.  I am trying, but I know it will get easier once I am on soft food. I am able to swallow all of my vitamins and meds, have been doing that since day two, and I am down 18 pounds as of today!  (that includes the 8 pounds I lost pre-op liquid diet)

I feel kind of "icky" yesterday and today, I'm think that's because I am not getting enough water and protein?  I am not in any pain, or gas, or nausea or anything like that, and I've had no trouble going "number two".  So, that's all I can think is wrong. My energy is fine.  And, I am going a little stir crazy, wanting to be more active.  Hubby is going to take me outside for a walk today.  Stretch my legs and get some fresh air.

Any pointers/ comments? Thanks all, hope you had a great Turkey Day!

Amy

Amy, glad you are home.  I bet DH was worried when it took longer than they said it would.

Sounds like you are doing everything you are suppose to be doing.

Enjoy your walk in the fresh air!! 

It does get easier to get everything in.  Just sip, walk and rest.

Linda

 I'm glad your home and doing good. Wow...you are doing awesome on the protein levels you are at...fluids are tricky since the pouch is sooooo sensitive. I loved having sf popsicles to help out...

Keep up the good job!!! 

Glad you are home and ok.  Did they plan on open?  Having had 4 open abdominal sugeries, all with staples, not strips, I can relate to the million crunches feeling.  But each day really does get better and you will do better getting your fluids in.  Welcome to the other side.

I'm sure each day will get better.  I have no real advice--just lots of get well wishes going out to you.

Yay!!!!  Scoootching on down, making room on the bench for ya.  The protein & liquids will get easier.  Cant wait to follow your progress.  Cindy

Hey Cindy, So glad to hear you came through OK and doing well! Excited to be following in your footsteps in a few weeks. Take care and keep us posted on how your doing

Welcome home, Amy.

((gentle hugs))

--gina

Glad to have you back, Amy!  

It sounds like you're doing everything right.  One thing:  focus on fluids before focusing on protein.  In the grand scheme of things, it's much more important that you're properly hydrated than it is that you get your protein in.  Especially immediately after surgery.  

Protein is important, don't get me wrong.  But fluids are more important.  Then vitamins.  

You'll get all three in soon enough!  (It took me a month to get there.)  

Keep truckin'!

Rosa

Great news Amy!  I had a really hard time getting in my protein and water for the first month, but after that it got much easier.

I had a similar situation with low body temp after one of my surgeries, I was shivering so badly the gurny was shaking!  LOL  They put warm blankets all around me and on my head as well.

Do you go to the support meetings at Dr. C's office?

Yasmeen