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recovery during the months after major surgery

Thu, September 23, 2010 8:19 PM

To those of you who have had major colon and upper intestine surgeries, how long did it take you to recover--I mean feeling better instead of vulnuerable to cramping and gas, and also to get back to being able to eat. For me it is seven weeks now, and things seem to be moving very slowly...

Thank you.

ebko
Joined Mar 12, 2009

Thu, October 28, 2010 9:39 PM

Reply posted for ebko.

I had surgery on Sept 25th (bowel resectioning) with a huge incision. I was in the hospital for 7 days (they say it takes 3 days recovery at home for every day spent in the hospital) and 4 weeks recovering at home. I go back to work next week, and I still would take another week if I could. I couldn't believe how long it took to not be tired after taking a shower or doing the dishes. As for the stomach issues, it is trial and error. I'm still having issues eating and with medicine side effects. Good luck.

amyplaysart
Joined Oct 5, 2010

Mon, October 18, 2010 7:50 PM

Reply posted for P12.

My teenage daughter was just informed that surgery may be in her near future.

Anyone care to share any advice, your experience, hopes, regrets, words of encouragement, etc.

Thank you
onedreamer@juno.com

momofmouse
Joined Jul 2, 2009

Tue, September 28, 2010 7:32 AM

Reply posted for ebko.

Recovery is dependent on your overall health and fitness at the time of surgery... That being said, I am STILL recovering and it has been 13 months today. I had 2 major surgeries in '09. I am in my 40s and prior to '08 I was very healthy and in shape. I am now able to do things. I can cook, clean the kitchen, do laundry and be sociable after work. I am starting to walk and exercise again. My brother in law had surgery on his elbow a year ago and he is just now feeling healed. His doc told him it takes about 6 months to a year to recover. Hang in there. I thought the day would never come that I felt good again but it has. Now I am working on getting that feeling every day! Make sure you laugh.

Breezy

breezy
Joined Jan 5, 2009

Fri, September 24, 2010 12:08 PM

Reply posted for ebko.

i had my whole colon removed on July 8th and it took about 8 to 9 weeks so far to really start eating a lot and finding out what food causes discomfort but just had to try a little at a time and see what works and what doesn't. one thing i did learn so far is to take it slow with everything it sucks but its the best medicine i have found. its a little different with everyone so hang in there. i found eating a little at a time thru the whole day instead of trying to eat a huge meal at one time worked good to get system back on track the best and slowly increase size of meal so you dont get that bloating feel

p12
Joined Sep 1, 2010

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