Unsure where to post and thought it comes under general thoughts now I’ve had my op.
this is day 5 and I’ve been absolutely marvellous since coming out. I’ve even coped with bowel movements, walking, tiredness etc. however … I’m struggling with my emotions which is making everything 10x worse. Am struggling with heparin injections (for 28 days so a way to go yet), my head is in a fog, literally, my legs feel like lead (though am injecting into tops of legs ?) and so very tearful all the time. I also seem to be a bit incontinent especially through the night (though I have a cystocele which I was awaiting a consultation for before all this).
Could a cancer nurse help with all this rather than GP ? Am coping with any pain with paracetomol and ibruprofen. .. and should I be taking laxatives once a day now that bowels have moved - I took lots per day before that.
Hi Drina
On your discharge paperwork there should be some phone numbers to call during the post op period. I would in the first instance call them and speak to one of the nurses, and just share how you are feeling. They would much rather know about these things and will want to help.
I also found my emotions a bit all over the place - its almost like you keep going while all the diagnosis and tests are done and don't have time to think. I think the anaesthetic also affected me.
With the injections- they are not nice and I found it better to do them in the am and get them out of the way- otherwise I would be thinking about them. I found alternating sides of my tummy helped so I was injecting in the same place 2 days in a row. You could try holding something cold on your tummy for a few minutes first to numb the area. I also found putting in the needle slowly at a 45 degree angle best and then removing it slowly. There was less stinging and pain.
With your bowels and the incontinence then speak with the hospital ward/CNS. I wonder if the taking lots of laxatives may have had an accumulative effect. They can also talk about what type of laxatives may be best going forward if you feel you need them. I was advised to use stool softeners for the first couple of days if needed.
I found with my emotions chatting it through helped but also going outside for some fresh air. Walking helped me.
Perhaps also give the Support Line a call and have a chat about things. They are lovely on there. You could always do it before calling the hospital if you want to prepare what to say. Number is below.
I hope that you start to feel a bit brighter and more comfortable soon. its all a lot to have happen and 5 days is early still in your recovery.
Jane
