Question:
How can I relieve this pain?

I searched the library and couldn't find the answer to this question. I am 7 days post-op and cannot sleep more than two hours before I wake up with major lower abdominal pain. It feels like gas, but I am not releasing any. I have had bowel movements each day, but in between I have this pain. I'd really like to be more comfortable. Is there anything I can take to relieve this--e.g. Phazyme, Pepto Bismol, etc? I'd appreciate any suggestions.    — PT LawMom (posted on June 28, 2001)

June 28, 2001
It could just be gas that is trapped there. Have you called your surgeon's office? As long as you're having a bowel movement & holding fluids/food down that is a good indication. (I had an obstruction so I know those terrible signs) You're body is healing so there will be some pain sometimes. Does your doctor have you on pain meds? (Percocet/Roxicet) I would still call and let your surgeon know what's going on. It may be nothing, it may be normal healing but you need to let them know.
   — Deniece H.

June 28, 2001
Any fever or anything to go with it? Where exactly is it? Lower left corner, down by your hip bone? Or just wandering around down there "somewhere"? One trick I use (being distal, I get ample opportunity) to move gas, if it IS gas in your case, is to "frog". That is so get your shoulders as close to the floor as possible, then stick your patootie in the air. You have to kinda spread yourself out to balance. Pretty hysterical, huh? Usually by the time my neck gets sore, I can feel some relief. I think it's easier to do on the floor than on a bed. And I'd guess it isn't easy to do with a fresh incision. However, it might be something you can try (slowly, gently) to be able to report to your doc WHEN (not if) you call in to report this thing with as many details as possible.
   — vitalady

June 28, 2001
I take peragoric. It works wonders. I am 14 months post-op, and still have major bowel pain. --
   — CohenHeart

July 12, 2001
I had terrible pain for the first week. i am now a week and a half post-op and the gas pain is finally going away. I didn't really do anything, my doctor said it will usually go away on it's own. I do take a pepcid every day as per doc's prders. that is supposed to hlp with gas I think. The gas seems to be worse for me at night. At this stage I would say it will probably go away. If it is still there in a while ask your doctor again! in the mean time, ty to find a comfy position! Walking and standing always gets the gasses going too, if you are wanting to get rid of it! Denise
   — Denise F.