Hi. I had my open bypass a few days ago on May 26th. The first evening I was using the morphine drip, mainly because of muscle spasms. They did not have to remove my gallbladder since I had that done about 12 years ago. I used the incentive spirometer religiously. It really helps clearing the lungs and stretching the muscles. Also, force yourself to get up and walk. They gave me oxycodone to come home on, but I haven't had to use any pain medication. It all depends upon your pain tolerance. Mine is very high. I gave birth to my kids (natural) without even Tylenol. I currently have 39 staples in my stomach, from the breastbone to about one inch above my belly button. I would suggest bringing several big, big t-shirts to sleep in. I also brought my own shampoo, deodorant, etc. even though they do supply this. My husband didn't spend the night with me. I really didn't want anyone hanging over me like a bunch of vultures. I stayed in the hospital for 3 days. As of today, it just mainly feels like a pulled muscle. Just remember to get up and move. Oh, and one thing that nobody told me was, it's NO picnic having to wipe after going to the bathroom. I hike my leg up on the side of the bathtub. I did have horrendous gas once my intestines woke up. Again, the walking will help this. Everyday will get better. Just remember that when you wake up and realize what's going on, that's when the pain is the worst. Keep telling yourself..."ok, it's not getting any worse....then a few hours later it's a smidge better, etc."
Watch what they give you to eat/drink in the hospital. They gave me some sort of "Boost" stuff that had 26 gm of sugar in it....I didn't drink it. Also, watch the fruit juices that it's 100% juice and not some fruit drink garbage. Good luck and we'll be here when you get back!
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