Also called: Postoperative care, Recovery from surgery
After any operation, you’ll have some side effects. There is usually some pain with surgery. There may also be swelling and soreness around the area that the surgeon cut. Your surgeon can tell you which side effects to expect.
There can also be complications. These are unplanned events linked to the operation. Some complications are infection, too much bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, or accidental injury. Some people have a greater risk of complications because of other medical conditions.
Your surgeon can tell you how you might feel and what you will be able to do – or not do – the first few days, weeks, or months after surgery. Some other questions to ask are
- How long you will be in the hospital
- What kind of supplies, equipment, and help you might need when you go home
- When you can go back to work
- When it is ok to start exercising again
- Are they any other restrictions in your activities
Following your surgeon’s advice can help you recover as soon as possible.
Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research
Also called: Gastric disorders
Your stomach is an organ between your esophagus and small intestine. It is where digestion of protein begins. The stomach has three tasks. It stores swallowed food. It mixes the food with stomach acids. Then it sends the mixture on to the small intestine.
Most people have a problem with their stomach at one time or another. Indigestion and heartburn are common problems. You can relieve some stomach problems with over-the-counter medicines and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding fatty foods or eating more slowly. Other problems like peptic ulcers or GERD require medical attention.
You should see a doctor if you have any of the following:
- Blood when you have a bowel movement
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heartburn not relieved by antacids
- Unintended weight loss
- Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea
NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases