I just got home from the hospital after having my gallbladder out and it wasn't routine. Apparently a gall stone had lodged at the opening of the pancreas and had to have additional incision to remove it. The pain is just awful and I was wondering if this is normal. Have you had a similar experience and did you handle it any special way? I am taking prescription pain relievers. They're just not working. Should I complain or will it get better in the next few days. There's a big bruise at the sight of the drainage tube that they took out last night. Should I try moving around more or take it easy? The doctor just said not to do any lifting or pulling. I ask because I need to hear from someone who has had a similar experience and knows how long it takes to recover.
A cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) with the addition of cholelithiasis (stones) is painful. Do take it easy. It could take days before you feel better. Watch the incision site. If it becomes red and starts to swell, call your surgeon. The tube was removed, that's good. If you need to cough, hold a pillow against your abdomen, it will decrease the movement. Rest, rest, rest. Take your pain medication and good luck. Never had one but worked as a scrub assistant for a few years.
I don't have any similar experience with gall bladder stones. but I do know it is one of the most painful operations that there is. If the painkillers isn't working go back and get something stronger or better...it could be that your body has a resistance to what they have given you and you need to get a different type.
You shouldn't be in constant pain after any operation,there are enough medication available to treat almost any type of pain and treat it immediately.
