Day 5 ... Thank goodness for good drugs! Newbies, don't be scared!

[sarina55 8]

I had my surgery on Nov. 21 and I am so glad I did this! The first three days are uncomfortable but not awful and def so worth it!

Def was in pain when I woke up until the nurse finally gave me Dilaudid rather than morphine. I don't know what the difference is as they are in the same class. But it made a big difference. I was able to get up several times and walk during that first night in the hospital.I dry heaved several times while in the hospital basically any time I tried to take in any fluids.. but for very short periods, it resolved itself quickly. I never throught I would get through the contrast swallow test which I needed to pass in order to get sprung from the hospital, but the yucky solution went right down! I barfed it up afterward. But again, quickly and it was over. Honestly, the hospital stay could have been so much worse. No prolonged nausea or significant pain to speak of. I was only nauseated when I tried to take in fluids orally. When I was in the hospital, I really didn't want visitors. I just wanted to be alone to sleep and just deal.

The challenge was managing both nausea and pain when I got home which I really was able to do with Zorthran (for nausea) and Tramadol (for pain). It was very difficult to get down fluids and I think the most stressful part of this period was trying to get fluids down to avoid dehydration. Because you can take in very little. And I felt like I needed to get up and walk around everytime I took a few sips, to get things moving. You would have to be up all day and all night and not sleep to get down the 64 ounces they say is required. I probably got down 36 ounces (if that) for the first 24 hours home. But I was peeing a lot so I guess the hospital sent me home pretty well hydrated.

I had the surgery on Friday. On Monday I was able to start to take in watered down juice and nibble on some sugar free Jello. On Tuesday, I was able to add Propel Water and chicken broth. Hard to keep your energy level up with so few calories. I spend all of my time in bed. Until Monday, I was just sleeping. Didn't even watch TV. But on Monday I started watching TV and got back on my laptop but I still slept most of the day. On Tuesday, I stayed awake most of the day.

I see my doctor today for my one week -- because of the holiday it is early. The two issues of concern I will raise with him are: no BM since before the surgery -- however my gas pains are not bad; I have a rash on my belly which I believe is due to the polyester binder they place on you post surgery; and please please please can I move on to thickened liquids? I am getting hunger pains!

[Elode 8,093]

Well I'm glad everything seems to be progressing nicely for you. You should be allowed to take some Miralax for the BM issue. I took it day 4 and haven't had to take anything since. Good luck to you!

[BigGirlPanties 957]

the BM is not unusual as you are only taking in liquids...as long as you are not constipated, you are ok... you may have a very liquidy one ...no fun either... that will come on SUDDENLY!

As for the tiredness, that's also because of the anesthesia...that takes awhile to get out of your system...but it seems like you are heading to the LITE!

[sarina55 8]

Thanks for the feedback and encouragement. Had Miso Soup today for lunch and it was delicious. Doc said I def need to have a BM and recommended Colace. If that doesn't work, I'll try the Miralax. We will see how that works. Bought some Miso to go (I love it) to take to my sister's for Tgiving dinner tomorrow. He recommended lotion for the rash around my midsection. Had a lot of energy today.. felt good. But put myself to bed early this evening just so that I don't overplay my hand.

[sarina55 8]

Two colace and a Smooth Move tea later, all is well. Having zero problems with the smooth liquids diet. Only problem is felt so good day 6 (thanksgiving) that I did too much. Taking it easy today and starting to focus on Protein.

[kikicoates78 220]

The first month has been a struggle with going to the bathroom for me. But I have taken the advice from many here and it has really helped! Keep up your positive attitude, it will take u far!! Good luck!!