Topic Explanation
The forum discussion revolves around a user sharing their experience on the second day after undergoing a colostomy reversal surgery. They describe their healing progress, pain management, and various post-operative symptoms and concerns. The user mentions passing stool and gas, experiencing bloody stools, managing pain with Tylenol and Motrin, and dealing with extra skin and drainage at the stoma site. They also discuss using a binder, following a low-fiber diet, and feeling their intestines move, which causes discomfort. The user seeks advice and shares their journey with the community.
Advice and Insights
- Pain Management:
- Avoid using oxycodone if possible; stick to Tylenol and Motrin for pain relief.
- Some users took oxycodone sparingly, only when absolutely necessary.
- Post-Operative Symptoms:
- Bloody stools can be normal post-surgery but should be monitored.
- Feeling intestines move and experiencing gurgling sounds are normal and part of the healing process.
- Abdominal soreness, similar to the feeling after doing many crunches, is common.
- Diet and Hydration:
- Follow a low-fiber diet for the first two weeks post-surgery.
- Stay hydrated to aid in recovery.
- Activity and Rest:
- Rest, walk, and avoid lifting heavy objects to prevent complications like hernias.
- Protect yourself from illnesses to avoid coughing, which can lead to hernias.
- Use of Binder and Diapers:
- Wearing a binder can help, but it should be removed at night to allow stitches to dry.
- Using adult diapers can provide peace of mind, especially during sleep.
- Monitoring and Follow-Up:
- Keep an eye on any knots or unusual symptoms at incision sites and consult with the surgeon.
- Regular follow-ups with the surgeon are crucial to monitor healing and address any concerns.
- Emotional and Psychological Support:
- The journey from having a stoma to reversal surgery is challenging both physically and emotionally.
- Support from the community and sharing experiences can be beneficial.
- Hernia Concerns:
- There is a risk of developing hernias post-reversal, especially if there is a history of hernias or multiple surgeries.
- Wearing a belt or binder can help manage hernia symptoms.
- Consult with the surgeon about the risk of hernias
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