This topic is about dealing with persistent nausea after a temporary ileostomy surgery. The person in question is experiencing ongoing nausea a week after the operation, and while medication like Zofran offers some relief, it’s not enough. The challenge is also compounded by difficulty in staying hydrated and eating well. Here are some helpful tips and insights to manage this situation:
1. Gentle Movement: Encourage regular, gentle walks around the house or outside. Changing positions frequently can help reduce nausea and support overall recovery.
2. Hydration Tips:
- Aim to drink about 2 liters (or 67 ounces) of fluids each day.
- Opt for electrolyte-rich drinks like Gatorade or electrolyte water instead of just plain water to maintain a good balance of electrolytes.
- Sip small amounts of fluid frequently rather than trying to drink large amounts at once.
3. Medication Options: It might be helpful to talk to the surgeon or general practitioner about possibly adding medications like Compazine or an appetite stimulant to the current regimen if nausea continues. Also, checking and correcting any electrolyte imbalances can be beneficial.
4. Food Suggestions: When appetite is low, try bland and easy-to-digest foods such as saltine crackers, which also help with electrolytes. High-protein, soft foods like Ensure shakes, scrambled eggs, or Greek yogurt can support healing.
5. Patience with Recovery: Understand that post-surgical nausea can last for several weeks, and it might take 4 to 6 weeks for the appetite to return to normal.
6. General Tips: Take recovery one day or even one hour at a time. Avoid foods that are known to upset the stomach until things settle down.
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