Here’s What To Expect After You’ve Had Having Your Gallbladder Removed
Each patient has their own experience while in recovery after having your gallbladder removed.
But in general, many patients who have their gallbladder taken out are surprised when they feel many of the same symptoms they had before their procedure.
Doctors have a name for this phenomenon. They call it “postcholecystectomy syndrome.” Cholecystectomy is medical terminology for a gallbladder removal operation.
There has been some research done indicating that as many of 4 out of 10 people suffer discomfort after gallbladder removal surgery for months or even years. Why does this happen? It’s because the bile duct continues to accumulate bile. The bile duct is a tube that carries bile between the liver and the gallbladder.
As for the first few days after gallbladder surgery, here’s what to expect.
You’ll notice some bruising, and the area where the surgery took place will become somewhat swollen. There’s really nothing surprising about this, even if you’ve had laparoscopic surgery (which is much less invasive than a large open incision).
The air that was pumped into the surgical area during your operation may also cause some slight discomfort. The reason your doctor inserts air in this way is to open up space to manipulate his or her instruments. Certain pain medications prescribed by your doctor will help ease any discomfort this causes.
Moving around may become somewhat uncomfortable – especially when you’re trying to sit down or get up. Using the bathroom isn’t likely to be easy for a few days. Muscles in the abdominal area will be pretty sore.
You’re probably going to have to cope with some bloating, gas and diarrhea for several days while your digestive system adjusts to its new circumstances. Some patients get constipation instead of diarrhea. This happens infrequently, so there’s no reason to be worried if it happens to you. If bowel movements become somewhat distressing, check with your doctor to see what he or she can recommend to help.
Your digestive system may be unpredictable for a while. This is normal. You’ll probably do well eating low fat or fat-free, light foods only. Low cholesterol foods and cholesterol-free foods tend to work best for most people.
It’s also smart to eat smaller meals rather than big ones. But make sure you get enough to eat because your body needs fuel to help with post-surgical recovery.
As time passes, you can start testing your digestive system to see how it responds to certain foods. Introduce some heavier foods and pay close attention to what happens.
Check with your doctor about exercise. It can help, but you have to be smart about it – it’s important not to overdo it. Be mindful of your stitches. Follow your doctor’s recommendations closely on this.
Don’t forget to talk to your doctor about baths and showers. Most stitches don’t do well with wetness.
Your first follow up visit to your doctor will probably take place in 7-10 days. Another follow up appointment is likely in 4-5 weeks.
Would you like to get additional information on gallbladder removal surgery and related topics? Click on After A Gallbladder Removal Procedure. Neal Kennedy is a former TV and radio journalist with a special interest in health and fitness topics. You can read more of his articles at http://www.gallbladderhealth.info.
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