The topic at hand is about the duration of pain after an ostomy reversal surgery. An ostomy reversal is a procedure to reconnect the bowel after a temporary ostomy, which is often done to allow the bowel to heal after surgery or illness. The person sharing their experience had a temporary ostomy due to severe abdominal pain and underwent a reversal surgery a few months later. They are now dealing with post-surgery pain and are curious about how long this pain might last.
Here are some helpful insights and advice based on their experience and general recovery tips:
1. Healing takes time, so it's important to be patient and allow your body to recover without rushing into activities.
2. Avoid strenuous activities for at least 8 weeks post-reversal to prevent complications and aid in healing.
3. Pain levels and recovery times can vary greatly from person to person. Factors like extensive scar tissue, ICU stays, and the complexity of the surgery can affect the intensity and duration of pain.
4. Regularly compare your symptoms with your surgeon’s guidance. If pain persists or worsens beyond what is expected, it’s important to report it to your healthcare provider.
5. Early mobilization, such as walking, is encouraged as part of recovery. Pain management typically starts with stronger medications like IV morphine and transitions to oral pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol).
6. Initially, you may experience frequent loose stools and gas, which usually decrease within the first week or two.
7. Recovery experiences can vary widely. Some people may need only mild pain relief after a few days, while others with more severe conditions may face a longer recovery period.
8. Medications like laxatives (e.g., Senna) and antibiotics (e.g., Cipro) might be used around the time of surgery for certain complications. However, using laxatives without medical supervision, especially during conditions like diverticulitis, can be dangerous.
9. Online support communities can be a great source of understanding and encouragement for those going through ostomy and reversal recovery. They offer a space to share experiences and gain support from others who have been through similar situations.
See full discusison