Question:
Has anyone experienced nightmares after surgery?

Immediately after my surgery I have had nightmares consistently. They vary in subject matter and contact but they are truly nightmares? Has anyone else experienced this and if so do you know why?    — [Anonymous] (posted on November 29, 2001)

November 29, 2001
I had terrible nightmares after surgery. For me it was because of the pain meds I was taking. Since I was really only taking it at night to help me sleep and not for pain, I just stopped taking it and the nightmares stopped. If it's not that causing it for you, it might be some stress you could be feeling (related or unrelated to surgery). Your best bet is to eliminate possible causes one-by-one. Good luck!
   — Anne B.

November 29, 2001
I sure did have nightmares while I was in the hospital. I think it was the morphine I was on. It seemed to clear up once I was home Carol
   — Carol M.

November 29, 2001
I didn't have nightmares, but very bizarre dreams. But so did two of my friends after other kinds of surgery. I believe it's related to the anesthesia. I wouldn't worry too much about it. They'll pass.
   — Nancy Z.

November 29, 2001
When I quit smoking, I had More dreams..infact I drempt every night. I do not know about post op, because I am still a preemie...;~`)
   — [Anonymous]

November 29, 2001
It is probably your medications. Different Meds act differently on each person. It can be the pain meds, antibiotics, even the vitamins. Anything new that your taking can be causing this. I am currently experiencing a new type of dream sleep due to taking Excedrin P.M. Since I know it is caused from that I just accept the fact that it will happen. Antibiotics have caused me the worst nightmares I recall. So don't be alarmed, just decide what you can deal with. Try switching your meds around to earlier in the day if possible, that could help. Also if taking more than one, try not to take them at the same time. Hope this helps.
   — Dottie C. B.

November 29, 2001
are you on percocet, it effects me that way
   — [Anonymous]

November 29, 2001
Yes!yes! yes! The pain medication gave me horrible nightmares, but I was so sore I took it til it ran out. I mentioned it at my 2 week check-up and the nurse said several patients had mentioned the same thing.
   — [Anonymous]