Every surgery is a traumatic and invasive experience for our bodies, no matter how big or small it may seem. While surgeons do their bit, it is our job to administer proper post-surgery care. This ensures a quicker recovery and avoids further complications. 

Most post surgery issues include blood pressure drops, internal bleeding, infections or lung-related problems. Some can’t be avoided, but most can with utmost care and attention.

Recovery from surgery is a physical and psychological experience. Plus, our recovery times vary with body type, age and the type of surgery you have undergone, utilising local and general anesthesia.

Whatever your situation may be, avoid rushing through the recovery phase and understand that work, family and friends can wait! Haste now will cost you dearly later.

Here are some ways in which you can ensure a fast, post surgery recovery with no negative after-effects or damage:

1)  Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

Always listen to the doc! No one knows your problem better than a medical professional who has performed the operation on you. Take your doctor’s advice seriously and ensure you do the physiotherapy, take medicines on time or remember to keep the affected part dry.

Some instructions may be more difficult to follow than others. If there is something that you are unable to do or is giving you trouble like a medicine that’s too strong, bring this to the attention of your doctor immediately. Don’t wait for the next appointment. There is always another way.

2)  Don’t Miss Follow up Appointments

Speaking of appointments, meet the doctor on the assigned dates, whether you are feeling better, same or worse. Often when we heal, we start thinking that we don’t need to meet the doctor any longer. We begin moving around and feeling independent. That’s wonderful but you must meet the doctor and allow him/her to do a thorough check.

Even if you believe you are healing well, rely on a doctor’s verdict to tell you the truth. He or she may advise you to take tests, an xray or a change of medication. All these are important in your recovery phase.

To avoid feeling lazy to go for appointments, find a doctor/surgeon who is located close by. If your surgeon is half way across town or in another city, you may not meet as often.

3)  Prevent Infection

Infections are dangerous and can greatly delay your post-surgery recovery. They can occur internally in your blood or urine, or externally on an incision. As soon as you experience any sensation that is out of the ordinary or witness something irregular, notify your doctor. 

An infection can occur for anyone. They are not your fault or any one else’s. Some bodies are more sensitive than others. Often, urinary tract infection accompanies surgeries due to the use of urinal cathedrals.

So, don’t feel embarrassed or frustrated. Most infections can be nipped in the bud. But if you refrain from informing your doctor in time, infections can lead to dangerous complications and permanent damage.

Follow the below instructions as a standard wound care practice:

1. Wash your hands before and after touching wounds
2. Do not forget or miss taking prescribed antibiotics (they help you heal)
3. Always keep your wounds clean and dry
4. Do not use any ointment or creams that your surgeon did not recommend
5. Carry hand sanitizer when you’re out of the house; take extra care

4) Incision Inspection

It’s your wound and your job to keep an eye on it! Look out for broken stitches, unusual discharge, and wound appearance. If you’re unable to view it, ask a family member to check for you. But don’t neglect it.

At the same time, try not to self diagnose and treat your wounds on your own. Let the doctor know and he/she will tell you the right course of action.  

5) Take Care While Sneezing and Coughing

Aggressive sneezing or coughing can hamper a healing wound. Stitches and staples can pop open, especially if your surgery is on the abdomen.

You can try applying a little pressure to your incision or holding it, while sneezing or coughing to prevent damaging it.

6) Eat to heal

A healthy diet of fresh nutritious food is always recommended. But even so when healing from a surgery. The body uses food to repair tissue and rectify inflammation. There are many fruits and vegetables with anti-inflammatory properties that will help you during these times. Plus protein-rich food builds muscle and gives you strength.

In case you are not feeling too hungry, try soups, khichdi and juices. But always stay hydrated and don’t starve the body. You’ll be surprised how well your body heals when you eat well!

On an ending note

Inadequate post-surgery care not only prolongs the healing process but also affects other body functions and your frame of mind. The quicker you heal, the better you will feel about getting back to your normal life.

The best part of post-surgery care is that it is not so complicated. Follow instructions, rest well and stay positive.

Wishing you a happy and speedy recovery!