Post-Operative Bloating Following Laparoscopic Surgery
A 32-year-old female with an otherwise clean bill of health, who used to smoke but stopped last October after a decade, underwent laparoscopic surgery to excise a large cyst on her spleen just last Wednesday. After the operation, I faced some challenges: the narcotic pain relievers I was given caused a significant drop in my oxygen saturation, requiring supplemental oxygen for a duration of two days. Additionally, following the surgery, I was unable to move my left leg, which the surgeon suspects may stem from a possible nerve compression during the procedure. Now, six days have passed since my surgery, and I’ve experienced four bowel movements without the aid of any laxatives or stool softeners. However, today has been particularly concerning as I feel an increased amount of bloating, and my abdomen is extremely firm to the touch—possibly the most so since the operation. This discomfort is more pronounced than anything I have encountered throughout my recovery. Is this a typical response after such a procedure? The pain I am experiencing now seems to have escalated beyond my previous discomfort levels.
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 12:01:57 AM
OpenHealth AI
Post-operative bloating can occur after surgeries like yours, but it's important to monitor the symptoms carefully. Given that you're six days post-surgery and experiencing significant bloating and abdominal firmness, this could indicate a few different things, ranging from normal post-operative recovery to potential complications.
Explanation
After laparoscopic surgery, such as your cyst excision, it's common to experience bloating due to several factors, including:
- Gas from the surgical procedure: Air is sometimes introduced into the abdomen to improve visibility during laparoscopic surgery, which can lead to post-op bloating.
- Changes in bowel function: The anesthesia and pain medications can slow gut motility, leading to bloating. However, you mentioned having bowel movements, which is a positive sign.
- Fluid accumulation: In some cases, fluid retention can occur, especially if there's irritation or inflammation from the surgery.
The increased firmness in your abdomen and heightened discomfort are concerning, especially since you previously had manageable pain levels.
Next Steps
-
Positioning and Movement: Try changing your position frequently to help relieve gas and encourage mobility in your digestive system. Gentle movements, such as walking, can assist with reducing bloating.
-
Hydration and Diet: Ensure you're drinking plenty of fluids. Consider a diet that's gentle on the stomach, like clear broths, bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet). Avoid gas-producing foods like beans, cabbage, and carbonated drinks for now.
-
Pain Management: If pain levels are escalating, try over-the-counter pain relief that is suitable following surgery (consult about this based on previous medications).
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms. If the bloating persists, worsens, or if you experience new symptoms like fever, increased abdominal pain, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits (like constipation or diarrhea), it would be prudent to seek further evaluation.
-
Positioning for Comfort: You may find relief by lying on your side or in a reclined position that allows your abdomen to relax.
If discomfort continues to increase or you have any new or worsening symptoms, consider reaching out for professional medical advice to rule out any complications. Remember, it's always best to err on the side of caution in the post-operative period.
Related Questions
Bumps in the Pubic Area: What You Should Know
Hello, I've observed some bump-like formations in my pubic region. Luckily, they’re not accompanied by itching, discomfort, or any pain. I’m a 35-year-old male. Could this be a sign of HPV or HIV? I'm curious about treatment options as well.
Concerns Regarding Potential Lisfranc Injury
A 16-year-old male, who stands at 6 feet tall and weighs 150 pounds, sustained an injury to his left foot after falling while running two days ago. Following the incident, I took him to see a foot and ankle specialist, who conducted X-rays and expressed concerns about a possible Lisfranc injury, based on the imaging results as well as his physical examination. At this moment, my son has been placed in a CAM walker boot and an MRI has been arranged for Thursday. In light of this situation, I have some queries and apprehensions: 1) **Non-Weight Bearing vs. CAM Walker**: From my findings, it seems that even minor Lisfranc injuries generally necessitate a period of non-weight bearing for several weeks. I am apprehensive that allowing him to walk in the boot might exacerbate the condition, should this indeed be a Lisfranc injury. Is it reasonable for me to be worried about this? 2) **Timely Consultation with the Right Specialist**: I’ve come across information stating that specialized orthopedic surgeons who focus on foot and ankle injuries are best suited to manage Lisfranc injuries. Although I managed to secure an appointment with a pediatric orthopedic foot and ankle specialist, it’s set for two weeks from now, which is the soonest available slot. Should the MRI results confirm the injury, are there steps I should take or points to raise in order to expedite my son’s referral? I’ve also read that if surgery is required, it’s optimal to perform it within two to three weeks following the injury. 3) **Next Steps**: While we await the MRI appointment and consultation with the orthopedic specialist, are there additional measures I should consider or precautions I should take? Thank you in advance for any advice or insights you may offer; it is truly appreciated!
28M - Pinworm Resistance to Treatment
Greetings, I've been dealing with a persistent issue of pinworms for several months now. Despite maintaining a rigorous cleaning routine and administering the medication Pyrantel biweekly, I initially saw improvement throughout May, but unfortunately, the problem has resurfaced. This time, however, it seems the medication is having little effect. Today, I consulted a doctor regarding this ongoing issue. While she did prescribe a different medication, her attitude was quite unprofessional, as she frequently interrupted me and appeared eager to finish the appointment, despite the clinic being relatively quiet. I'm genuinely worried that my pinworm infestation will develop a resistance to this new treatment as well. I've been considering various options, such as a three-day fast, but I would appreciate any additional advice or strategies to address this situation effectively.
Update on My Recent Health Scare
I’m a 17-year-old male weighing 60 kg, and I recently thought I was facing an episode of appendicitis. My symptoms began around 6 PM with a mild burning sensation on the sides of my abdomen. By 2 AM, the discomfort escalated to such a degree that sleeping became impossible. I found myself wide awake between 3 and 4 AM, struggling with the pain. By 5 AM, I managed to have a bowel movement, yet the discomfort remained persistent. At 6 AM, I was doubled over in agony, feeling nauseous and on the brink of tears. I managed to catch a bit of sleep from 7 to 8 AM, but I was still utterly drained. When I tried to have breakfast at 9 AM, every bite made me feel as though I would vomit. A little later, around 10 AM, I informed my dad that the pain was concentrated in my lower right side and urged him to take me to the doctor. As I was attempting to change clothes by around 10:20 AM, I was struck by a wave of pain that made me curl up again. By approximately 10:30 AM, I was in tears, overwhelmed with dread, worrying about the surgery I might need and the burden it could place on my family, especially with our reunion just three days away, not to mention the potential costs. Suddenly, a few minutes later, the intense pain started to diminish. I panicked as the pressing sensation in that area still hurt, but other symptoms quickly faded. Eventually, I realized that I was really hungry and felt ready to enjoy some breakfast. This isn't the first instance I've had similar experiences; I had a comparable episode before, although it was less severe, and it also subsided after a brief but strange popping sensation in my stomach. Given this recent episode, I’m left wondering if I should still seek medical advice. What do you all think? Thanks for your input!
Unexplained Bump on Toddler's Foot
I have a nearly three-year-old daughter who weighs around 22 pounds. For the past two months, she has had a small bump or dot on the bottom of her foot. Initially, we suspected it might be a splinter and attempted to remove it, but we couldn't extract it. Now, two months later, the bump remains. Does anyone have any insight into what this might be?