Question:
I'm 3 days post-op and got home today. How long do these gas pains last?

Also, I ended up with a little bit of pneumonia from that tube down my throat for 4 hours. Anybody else experience that? They have me on pretty heavy antibiotics now, but other than my sore throat and gas pains, I'm doing well.    — [Anonymous] (posted on July 30, 2001)

July 30, 2001
Don't wait. Go to a pharmacy and get some gas pills. I had to and it was the best thing I did.
   — Danmark

July 30, 2001
What are you taking in? Any sugars or milk? Check the labels of EVERYTHING you take in, even if you formerly thought of it as a "health" food. Sugar can MESS with your new plumbing!
   — vitalady

July 30, 2001
do you have a g-tube? If you do you can drain it daily, it relieves gas. I stood over the toilet and unclamped it. It is surprising how much fluid comes out. just be careful to clamp it up really really tight, or you will have leakage. Good luck
   — KATIE B.

July 30, 2001
What kind of Protein are you using? I came across one called Pro-Cal 100. only 7 grams of carbohydrates. That may help. It has 100 calories and 15 grams of protein per pack and it cost $1.00 per serving. It actually taste wonderful. e-mail me your addressa and I'll be glad to send you a few packs to see it you like it. Hope this helps. I had NO gas pains what so ever and I know the Pro-Cal 100 is the reason. Let me know. Sincerely, Denise Ogletree, Athens, GA
   — Denise O.

July 30, 2001
If your surgery was LAP gas discomfort is normal but went away for me after a day or so. That would be by my fifth post op day. Walking a lot will really help get rid of the gas.
   — bob-haller

July 30, 2001
Post-op gas pains usually peak about the 3rd day after surgery and ease off by the 5th or 6th day, or with the first bowel movement. Walking, or turning from side-to-side frequently when you're in bed, will help. My surgeon sends his patients home with a box of Gas-X, also a life-saver! If you are drinking milk, you might also be experiencing a little lactose-intolerance, so try eliminating that from your diet for a few days and see if that helps. Good luck!
   — Diana T.