Post-Surgery Recovery: Managing Pain and Discomfort After Bowel Strain

Q: Post-Surgery Recovery: Managing Pain and Discomfort After Bowel Strain

Hello： 1. <br>If you are feeling unwell, it is certainly advisable not to force yourself to exercise; however, it also depends on the type of exercise. <br>If it is just light exercise, it may not necessarily need to be stopped. <br>2. <br>It is normal for the surgeon to inquire

Inquiry

I have been experiencing issues with bowel movements for over 20 years.
Straining to defecate has resulted in injuries from head to toe, and now I often feel headaches or dizziness after bowel movements.
If I experience discomfort after defecating, such as abdominal pain, intestinal discomfort, neck pain, or headaches, should I continue exercising, or should I rest for a few days?
Additionally, I had a myomectomy, and when the nurse placed the oxygen mask on my face, I fainted before it was fully applied.
I heard that they usually inform you before administering anesthesia, but I did not hear that at all.
Two days after the surgery, when the doctor came to check on me, he asked if my abdominal incision hurt, which seemed a bit odd to me.
Isn't that a common situation? Although I learned from a colleague to use an IV for pain relief, at that time I told the doctor that the incision hurt, but now I realize it didn't actually hurt; it just felt strange.
My colleague mentioned that even with pain medication, it would still hurt.
What is going on here? Is this related to my long-term straining during bowel movements and the resulting injuries to my internal tissues?
Another issue is that after being discharged, whenever I get up from a chair, my body bends into a bow shape and only gradually returns to normal.
What could be causing this? Is it related to the anesthesia? Could it have affected my kidneys?

Lin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/12/31

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Hello: 1.
If you are feeling unwell, it is certainly advisable not to force yourself to exercise; however, it also depends on the type of exercise.
If it is just light exercise, it may not necessarily need to be stopped.
2.
It is normal for the surgeon to inquire about the level of pain at the surgical site after the operation.
Each individual's pain tolerance varies, so the same surgery can be experienced differently by different people, which is not unusual and is unrelated to chronic straining during bowel movements.
3.
After surgery, it is common for patients to adopt such methods to get up due to fear of pain at the incision site, which is not related to anesthesia or kidney function.
It is recommended to gradually engage in some stretching exercises.
If it has been more than a month since the surgery, you should practice slowly returning to your normal daily routine.
If there is still discomfort at the surgical site affecting your activities, you should seek assistance from the original surgeon.

Reply Date: 2007/12/31

More Info

Post-surgery recovery can be a complex and often uncomfortable process, particularly when it involves the gastrointestinal system and associated muscles. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms following bowel strain and a previous surgery for uterine fibroids. Let's break down your concerns and provide some guidance.

Pain and Discomfort After Bowel Strain
1. Understanding Your Symptoms: The discomfort you feel during bowel movements, including headaches, dizziness, and abdominal pain, can be attributed to several factors. Straining during bowel movements can lead to increased intra-abdominal pressure, which may cause discomfort in the abdomen and even referred pain in the neck and head. This is particularly true if you have a history of straining, as it can lead to muscle tension and spasms throughout the body.

2. Exercise vs. Rest: After experiencing discomfort, it is generally advisable to listen to your body. If you feel pain or significant discomfort after bowel movements, it may be wise to rest for a few days. Engaging in light activities such as walking can be beneficial, but avoid strenuous exercises that could exacerbate your symptoms. Gradually reintroducing exercise as your body allows is key. If you continue to experience pain, consider consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

3. Post-Surgery Pain Management: It is not uncommon for patients to experience varying levels of pain after surgery. The fact that you felt discomfort when the nurse placed the oxygen mask on your face suggests that your body may have been reacting to the stress of the situation. Post-operative pain can be influenced by many factors, including the type of surgery, individual pain tolerance, and the effectiveness of pain management strategies. If you feel that your pain was not adequately addressed, it’s important to communicate this to your healthcare provider.

4. Muscle Tension and Posture: The "bowing" posture you experience when getting up from a chair may be related to muscle stiffness or weakness, which can occur after surgery or prolonged inactivity. This can also be a result of the body’s response to pain, where muscles tighten to protect the area. If this continues, consider gentle stretching or physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength.

5. Concerns About Anesthesia and Kidney Health: Anesthesia can have various effects on the body, including temporary changes in muscle control and sensation. However, it is unlikely to cause long-term damage to the kidneys unless there were pre-existing conditions or complications during surgery. If you have concerns about kidney health, it would be prudent to discuss these with your doctor.

Recommendations
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can evaluate your condition and may recommend imaging studies or other diagnostic tests to rule out complications.

- Manage Pain Effectively: If you are experiencing significant pain, discuss pain management options with your doctor. This may include medications or alternative therapies such as physical therapy or acupuncture.

- Focus on Gentle Movements: Engage in gentle stretching and mobility exercises to help alleviate stiffness and improve your posture. This can also aid in recovery from surgery.

- Dietary Considerations: Ensure you are consuming a diet high in fiber to help ease bowel movements and reduce straining. Staying hydrated is also crucial.

In conclusion, recovery from surgery and managing discomfort from bowel strain requires a multifaceted approach. Listening to your body, seeking appropriate medical advice, and gradually reintroducing activity can help you navigate this challenging period. Always prioritize communication with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive the best care tailored to your needs.

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