Question:
Is there a list of signs of complications of wls complications?
I am pre-op, surgery date of 10/19/04, and I really would like to know if there is a list somewhere of post-op SIGNS of complications. I live alone and would really like to know what to prepare for post-op, I mean if something should happen what is normal and what should I call an ambulance for????? Is there a list of symptoms that tend to lead to complications? I have found many things, but nothing that says 'if x happens call your surgeon, or if you feel x way call your surgeon, or if you begin to breathe x way call your surgeon." I have found nothing that could warn me that a complication is beginning and get help. Please help me find out the symptoms. Again, I am alone and after surgery I need to know what to look for! Thanks!! Amber — septembergirl73 (posted on September 22, 2004)
September 21, 2004
Hi Amber,
Well, my surgeon tells us to watch some basic things after surgery:
1. Keep an eye on your temperature. If it goes above 100.4, call the
doctor.
2. Keep an eye on your blood pressure. If it becomes elevated, call the
doctor.
3. Keep an eye on your pulse. If it becomes elevated, call the doctor.
4. Keep tabs on your pain - if it becomes bad - call the doctor.
Four pretty basic things - any one or any combination of them is the red
flag to call the doctor.
I went to Spain for my surgery, and it was so helpful to have a surgeon who
would give such succinct information for this type of thing. Hope this
helps some!
Blessings,
dina
— Dina McBride
September 22, 2004
Also watch out for shortness of breath or labored breathing. pain in
shoulder and a feeling of impending doom. I had a sld a week after being
released and these symptons combined with a low grade fever were what
alerted me. Your surgeon should go over what to watch out for. Best of luck
to you. Erin
— Erin N.
September 22, 2004
I was alone too. I was worried about no one being there in case something
happened. I got a cordless telephone and put it by my bed. I also made
sure nothing I needed was in a drawer where I had to bend over to get it.
One time I had to call the doctor (and he had to call me back and there was
that phone). Mainly what you need is to be able to call the doc if
ANYTHING BESIDES A NORMAL GETTING WELL PATTERN IS BROKEN. By that I mean
that with surgery you get a little bit better every day, in a gradual
process. As it ended up, I was glad I was alone. Mostly I slept and I was
glad I didn't have to talk to anyone.
— Margaret G.
September 22, 2004
Barb Thomopsons great book includes a detailed list of complications and
symptoms, well worth the money.<P>
http://www.wlscenter.com<P> Its good your asking questions like this,
they make for a safer patient:)
— bob-haller
September 22, 2004
I've been concerned too and haven't found much. Maybe I'll learn more once
I get there. My date is Oct. 4. I'll let you know if I find anything.What I
have learned is its important to follow through with any testing before
surgery to help prevent problems. If you are refused the operation due to
your health, listen to the doctor. Its important to be healthy going in.
— Bettyj
September 22, 2004
Hi Amber......I just wanted to say congrats on your surgery date! We have
the same date in common. I am also sheduled for October 19th. I am
feeling many emotions, how about you? Sorry I can't offer any help to your
post this time because I am in the same situation as you. :) Take care!
Destrie (Selma, CA)
— DestrieLea
September 23, 2004
I would strongly recommend that you visit a support group before your
surgery. Talk to people who have had the surgery so that you know what to
expect. Unfortunately you going to find that everyone is a little
different and have different experiences with this surgery. I had very
little pain and was walking on the second day. You can read my profile and
this will give you an idea what to bring with you and how to prepare your
house. I would strongly recommebd that for a week you either have someone
with you or go by someones house. You are going to need help getting out
of bed, and going to the washroom. You will need to limit walking up stairs
and you will not be able to drive for at least two weeks. Didn't your
doctor give you some basic information about complications that can occur?
You will know if you are having a problem. I also want to strongly
recommend that you drink your required water. It is so important that you
do not become dehydrated. Keep a list of important numbers, stock up on
items that you are going to need and I really recommond someone be with you
for at least a week. I stayed with my mom and dad for 2 weeks. Not fun
but a great deal of help for me. Someone to talk to and watch over me just
in case something happened. I'm 16 months post-op and have lost 198 lbs.
— Linda R.
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