Two Days After Surgery
Hello everyone, I’m currently two days post-surgery. Today, I've been experiencing a peculiar sensation of pressure in the middle of my chest. It’s not exactly painful, nor do I feel like I'm short of breath—it’s a strange sort of awareness of it. My vital signs appear to be stable, and my breathing feels normal with no pain. However, I do struggle with intense health anxiety, particularly concerning blood clots such as pulmonary embolisms. I’m uncertain whether this pressure could be a residual effect from gas used during the procedure or if I’m just overthinking things. It's worth noting that I've never had a history of clots or any related medical conditions, and I’m only 30 years old.
Answers (1)
2/12/2026, 10:40:32 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious after surgery, especially with new sensations in your chest. The pressure you're feeling could be a common reaction to the gases used during laparoscopy, but it’s essential to remain observant, especially in the context of your health anxiety regarding blood clots.
Explanation:
After certain surgeries, particularly those involving general anesthesia, it’s not uncommon to have discomfort due to gas trapped in the abdomen. This can lead to a feeling of pressure or fullness in the chest or abdomen as your body adjusts. Your stable vital signs and normal breathing are reassuring signs. The anxiety you're experiencing could amplify your focus on these sensations, making them seem more concerning than they may actually be.
Next Steps:
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Stay Calm and Monitor: Acknowledge your feelings but try to stay calm. Monitor the pressure sensation and note any changes, particularly if it worsens or becomes painful.
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Hydrate and Move Gently: Ensure you’re drinking enough water and try to move around gently. Walking can help gas move through your system and may alleviate pressure.
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Deep Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises. This can help calm your mind and might also ease any physical discomfort related to gas.
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Patient Education: Educate yourself about post-operative symptoms. Understanding what's common can help alleviate some anxiety about worrying over potential complications.
If the sensation becomes painful, or if you develop new symptoms like difficulty breathing, a sudden increase in heart rate, or swelling in your legs, reach out for immediate medical advice for reassurance. If your health anxiety feels overwhelming, consider exploring strategies for managing anxiety, such as mindfulness techniques or speaking with a therapist. Please take care of yourself, and remember that it’s normal to feel a bit unsettled after surgery.
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