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How can you care for your acute pain after surgery?
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- If you take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve), read and follow all instructions on the label.
- Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to.
- Do not drink alcohol while you are taking pain medicines.
- Try to walk each day if your doctor recommends it. Start by walking a little more than you did the day before. Bit by bit, increase the amount you walk. Walking increases blood flow. It may also help prevent pneumonia and constipation.
- To prevent constipation from opioid pain medicines:
- Talk to your doctor about a stool softener or gentle laxative. If a laxative doesn't work, your doctor may suggest a prescription medicine.
- Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are high in fiber.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Take a fiber supplement, such as Citrucel or Metamucil, every day if needed. Read and follow all instructions on the label. If you take pain medicine for more than a few days, talk to your doctor before you take fiber.
Pain after surgery: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your pain gets worse.
- Your pain is not controlled by medicine.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.