Managing Pain After Surgery
People who are undergoing surgery often fear post-operative pain. This article will show you exactly what you can expect, and how to reduce and even eliminate pain from your surgery experience.
For years, people thought that severe pain after surgery was just something you had to put up with.
Not anymore.
The truth is, now there are proven, reliable ways to reduce pain and speed healing after surgery -- IF you're well-prepared and have discussed your options clearly with your nurses and doctors.
Why Manage Pain?
Well, besides the obvious benefit -- less pain -- surgery patients who have better pain management heal faster, enjoy a higher quality of life after surgery, and can even reduce the risk of certain complications such as pneumonia and blood clots.
Preparation, Preparation, Preparation
One of the best things you can do to set yourself up for post-operative success is to prepare well for your surgery. This means knowing what to expect and having a strategy for dealing with any situations that may arise. It also means making sure you've communicated thoroughly with your doctors and nurses so they know best how to treat you.
[FOR MORE ON PREPARING FOR SURGERY, CLICK HERE]
So before your operation, be sure you ask your doctor:
What kind of pain can I anticipate after surgery?
What can we do together to be prepared to reduce it?
You'll find that this kind of preparation will go a long way in helping you manage post-operative pain.
Another great option for pre-surgery success is self-hypnosis. Studies have proven that self-hypnosis can actually reduce your pain and improve your recovery by as much as 60%. CLICK HERE for more information on this surprising source of relief.
Medicate BEFORE Pain Arises
If there's one "secret" to effective pain management after surgery, it's this:
As soon as your pain starts (or even before), take your pain medicine.
That's because it's harder to ease pain once it has taken hold.
This means communicating properly with your doctors and nurses, and being aware of situations where your pain might increase (i.e. going for a walk or deep breathing exercises).
Don't try to brave it out. Pain management is crucial to a speedy recovery -- so if it hurts, speak up quickly and get the relief you need.
Choose the Right Pain Medications
Along with your doctor, it's important to select the right pain medication for you. There are literally dozens of options, so educate yourself a little on each one and be prepared to have an informed conversation with your doctor.
Many people feel as though they should just leave ALL the decisions about medicine and pain management in their doctors' hands. While your doctors are highly-trained specialists, and you would do well to take their advice, remember that no one is as familiar with your body as you. And what you tell them about yourself can help your doctors make the best decisions for you.
These days, most doctors welcome patients who are well-informed and take an active role in their own health and recovery. So learn your options and talk it out with your care-givers. It will only increase your chance for success.
For more information on everything you can do to manage and mitigate pain after surgery, check out Calm For Surgery’s incredible resources.
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