Full Recovery Can Take up to 3 Months
Surgeryforcolon cancermay impact your emotionalas well as yourphysical health.
The First Day
The most apparent changes following surgery revolve around the incision on your stomach.
It may be painful the first time, but the nurses can anticipate that discomfort and provide pain medications.
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The sooner you get out of bed and moving the better.
If a largeportion of your bowel was removedyou may expect some diarrhea.
Both diarrhea and constipation are common following bowel surgery.
Do not wait until the pain is unbearable to mention it.
It’s much easier to control and stop painsbeforethey become severe.
You will be sent home with a prescription for pain medication.
Recovering at Home
The recovery process does not stop upon leaving the hospital.
Your body is working hard to heal, but it needs your help.
Your healthcare provider may have sent you home with physical and dietary restrictions.
Talk to your healthcare provider before you:
At home,youare the nurse.
It’s your job to report any unusual findings to your healthcare provider.
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