Each person responds in their own way after a gallbladder removal operation.
Unfortunately, some people who think they’re going to feel better than they did prior to their operation don’t get what they expect – at least not right away.
Doctors call this phenomenon “postcholecystectomy syndrome.” Cholecystectomy is a term medical personnel use for a gallbladder removal operation.
According to some recent research, postcholecystectomy syndrome may affect as many as 40 percent of individuals who have had a gallbladder removal operation. Why does it happen? Because the bile duct (which carries bile to and from the liver) continues to accumulate bile. The bile duct is not normally removed as part of the operation.
Here are some things to expect in the days after your gallbladder removal surgery.
You’ll notice some bruising, and the area where the surgery took place will become somewhat swollen. This only makes sense. Your body has been somewhat traumatized – even if you had laparoscopic surgery, which is much less invasive than the traditional type.
You’ll probably also experience a little discomfort because of the air that was pumped into your abdomen during the operation. Inserting air into the surgical area is done to open up space for the surgeon to manipulate his or her instruments. If your pain is distressing enough, your doctor will probably prescribe pain relievers.
Keep in mind that it’s likely to be uncomfortable moving around, especially sitting down or getting up from a sitting position. Using the bathroom isn’t likely to be easy for a few days. Your abdominal muscles will need some time to recover – several days at least.
It’s typical to have more gas and bloating than usual for several days after your procedure. Diarrhea often occurs too. Some patients get constipation instead of diarrhea. This doesn’t happen too often, so there’s no reason to be concerned if it happens to you. Talk to your doctor. He or she may be able to prescribe something.
Keep in mind, it’s completely normal for your digestive system to be somewhat unpredictable. For this reason, it’s a good idea to follow your doctor’s dietary instructions. Low cholesterol foods and cholesterol-free foods tend to work best for most people.
Most patients also do better if they forego large meals for a while and concentrate oin eating smaller ones that are easier for the digestive system to handle. But be sure not to skip meals. Your body needs good nutrition to speed along your recovery.
As time passes, you can start testing your digestive system to see how it responds to certain foods. Begin introducing some heavier foods and pay close attention to what happens.
Exercise is generally good, but be careful. It’s important to use discretion. Remember that you have stitches and you don’t want to damage them. Follow your doctor’s recommendations closely on this.
Generally speaking, it’s important to keep your stitches dry, so consult your doctor about baths and showers.
Your first follow up visit to your doctor will probably take place in 7-10 days. Your second follow up appointment will probably take place in 4-5 weeks.
Would you like more information on having a gallbladder removal operation and related topics? Click on What Happens After A Gallbladder Removal Operation. Neal Kennedy is a former radio and television talk show host with a special interest in kidney health. You can read more of his articles at http://www.gallbladderhealth.info.