Recover From Gallbladder Removal

The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ that stores bile produced in the liver. The gallbladder kicks into gear when you eat fatty foods. On occasion, an imbalance of the gallbladder's chemistry (caused by factors like heredity, poor diet or pregnancy) can result in the formation of gallstones. These painful pebble-like stones can cause discomfort and inflammation affecting the gallbladder and nearby organs like the liver. The gallstones can even block the bile ducts. Gallbladder removal surgery is frequently performed when a patient experiences severe or chronic problems. Recovery from surgery can be difficult, particularly since diet has a dramatic impact on the healing process.

Instructions

1. Arrange for a caretaker to assist with children and pets for approximately one week after surgery. Bending over and lifting is not permitted during the recovery process.

2. Eat frequent, small meals comprised of healthy, low-fat foods for two weeks following surgery. Fatty foods place undue stress on the digestive system, which needs to rest after the removal of the gallbladder. The gallbladder removal also affects bile production; fatty foods trigger it and should therefore be avoided.

3. Take a multivitamin and drink plenty of water (at least eight glasses a day). This will promote good health in a general sense and will improve the body's ability to heal. Get extra sleep -- at least 10 hours per day. The body heals more efficiently during sleep.

4. Take pain medication and antibiotics at the prescribed frequency to avoid infection and discomfort following the operation. Taking these medications with food will prevent digestive upset. Also, take anti-diarrhea medication and drink extra water if you experience loose stools and gas. Diarrhea and gas are common symptoms immediately following surgery.

5. Apply ice packs to the incision(s) for 20 minutes at a time (as needed) to reduce swelling from the surgical procedure.

6. Wash the incisions twice daily using antibacterial soap once the doctor allows for bandage removal. This must be performed in the shower since it is not possible to bend over the sink. Follow with antibiotic ointment and a fresh bandage.

7. Walk a short distance (i.e. around the house) once per hour during the day. Inactivity can allow for the formation of deadly blood clots in the legs. Walking a short distance will lessen this risk. If walking is absolutely not possible due to pain, flex and stretch your legs for five minutes, once an hour.

8. Return to the doctor's office for your follow-up appointment 7 to 10 days after the surgery for a post-surgical examination and for the removal of staples or sutures.

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