how long are you sore

I think I'm doing okay, but I'm still soooo sore. How long does this last? My other question, I was told to get in 64 ounces of liquid per day at 4 ounces per hour. I'm not awake that long. That does not leave any room for napping and I'm having to take the pain meds which make me so sleepy. Any suggestions? Thanks, Penny

Are you sore mostly around the staple lines? I remember that part hurt SO MUCH, and was the most sore. However, when the staples came out a few days later, it was like the anti-pain fairy had visited, the difference was that big. Almost all of the soreness went away then, too. As far as water goes, do the best you can. If you can't make 64 today, that's OKAY. But set 64 as your first goal, and work up to it. (then make a second goal of more... ) No one comes home from surgery and gets all the water that they're supposed to get the first day (and if you did, let me know how you did it!). I remember my first protein shake, at 8oz, and I thought I could NEVER get through it. But as time goes on, drinking gets a lot easier. I don't think the pain meds help with that, either, especially when they just put you to sleep. Good luck, and remember you have to learn to walk before you can RUN.  

Thanks, this makes me feel a little better knowing I'm not alone. I'm constantly drinking while I am awake, but I'm so sleepy right now. I did not get staples thank God. One incision hurts more than the others and they said that is the one the camera went into and it is not uncommon for that one to hurt more. I'm just whiney today, kinda teary eyed and feeling sorry for myself. I know it's early, but I just want to be "normal". Thanks, Penny

Staples, incision, same difference I guess. I had my surgery lap as well -- but instead of stitches to hold the incisions together, they used staples. Don't know what the difference is... maybe it's just the doctor's personal preference? Maybe it's because I was SMO -- and regular stitches wouldn't have held together? Beats me... I still say that you'll feel better once they're removed. I even fell out of a recliner on my face about three days postop while I was sleeping. Pulled every staple line there was, and hurt like hell, but I'm still around to talk about it. (and Mom got a good laugh at me once she found out I was okay) You'll be okay, I promise. But don't expect to be "normal" -- you're going to have many adjustments to make over the coming weeks and months -- this pain is just the most immediate one for right now.

Hi Penny Julie gave a great reply. You sound like you are doing well! Congratulations and welcome to the bench.

Julie, pretty much said it all Penny.  You are going to constantly be going through periods of adjustments.   Pain is just the one for right now.  It will pass quickly as will the being tired.  Once you stop the pain meds that will pass.   You will work up to the amount of water.  I'm with Julie, I couldn't drink that amount right away either.  Your doing just fine.  Take one day at a time and call me if you need me!! Anna

Hi Anna, Good to hear from you. Do you remember how long you were sore. I'm honestly more sore now that on Monday or Tuesday. It feels like a pulled muscle on my left side. It doesn't hurt at the incision site, and mostly sore when I reposition. I called the office today and talked to Missy. She said really not much she can do about it, but she will tell Jimmie. I have not heard anything else. Overall, I think I'm okay. Lewis bought a recliner today. I think that is going to help. Thanks, Penny

Hmmm is it near that left incision cite near your left breast.  That spot is going to hurt the longest as that is where they had the camera and they move it around some.  Also it could be gas moving around as well.  For the first pain the recliner is the ticket for the gas pain getting up and moving is going to be the best thing for you...just don't over do it.  I really can't remember how long I was in pain.  I know I was not sore for longer then a week.  Hope this helps.   Anna

The pain is not at the incision. It's more like my left side and back. Gas...I don't know. It seems to be passing okay (sorry to be gross).I think the recliner is going to make a big difference. Thanks for the answer, I hope the pain is no longer than a week. It just doesn't seem to be improving. Thanks, Penny