Before you start, make sure you have gauze pads, a box of medical gloves, surgical tape, a plastic bag, and scissors.
Use these steps.
If you have signs of infection, call your doctor. These signs include increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. They also include red streaks leading from the incision, pus draining from the incision, or a fever. Call your doctor if you have pain that doesn't get better after you take pain medicine.
The most common problems right after surgery are pneumonia, bleeding, infection, bruising or blood clotting (hematoma) at the surgery site, trouble urinating, and reactions to the anesthesia.
In the first 48 hours after surgery, the most likely risks are bleeding and heart or lung problems. From 48 hours to 30 days after surgery, the most common risks are infection, blood clots, and problems with other body organs.
Another concern is pain control. Inflammation or nerve injury from the surgery can cause pain. Your doctor may give you more than one medicine for pain. Often opioids are given.
Anesthesia can have side effects. Two of the most unpleasant ones are nausea and constipation. Nausea will soon wear off, but constipation can be uncomfortable for several days after surgery. You may get a medicine to help you move your bowels.
Here are some tips for caring for yourself after surgery. But be sure to follow any instructions your doctor gives you.
Take medicine as directed.
Care for your cut (incision).
Move carefully.
Eat and drink as directed.
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