Hi everyone, I am 5 days post op and must admit I was thinking I would be back to myself within 3-5 days. I'm frustrated that this is not the case. I've been walking 10-15 min everyday and it tires me out but I keep pushing forward. In fact I choose to come back to work three days after surgery (working at home) and then decided to drive to my second job which is about 25 miles each way last night to teach a class at a local college. Now I'm regretting not taking more time off for myself. I feel extremely tired and achy. Last night I sneezed while I was lying in bed (first since op) and screamed and wanted to cry cause it felt like my stitches would pop open. I want the intense pain to go away. It's mainly near the largest incision as well as in my chest. Any suggestions other than meds and being more patient? I stopped my pain meds two days after scared of getting hooked on them. I appreciate any advice y'all can offer. I know time should be the best thing but I'm really just so frustrated at this point. I've never had surgery and don't like being dependent on anyone. I want to be able to take care of myself. Thank you in advance for your helpful comments.

be patient i was in a lotttt of pain where my port was stitched to my stomach for about a week. I didnt feel back to normal until about 2-2.5 weeks. I ended up taking all my pains meds, and my doctor told me i could take ibuprofen pm at night to help me sleep better instead of writing me a new prescription.

I feel exactly the same way. I was banded on Friday (9/5) and expected 3-5 days of being uncomfortable, but I was wrong. Went back to work today and there is no way I will make it to the end of the day.

@Jneve480 maybe you can leave early? I hope you get some rest later tonight and feel better soon!

Edited September 10, 201411 yr by Texaslatina

I still had pain five days post op. But mostly soreness except where they put the port. I STILL have a lot of pain there, especially when I sneeze, cough or blow my nose!! They don't know why. I had my surgery last February. Just splint your abdominal area if you sneeze or have pain there. it helps. Put a pillow there and press hard. That helps.

Sorry to all who are having a hard time. It gets better, really, and when it does you will be glad for the life saving change you made. But for now I'm just sending comforting hugs.

I did leave early. Sitting up was too difficult. I am also having pretty bad diarrhea so my stomach was killing me.

Why are you not taking your pain meds? If you need them take them. Being in pain is very difficult on the body. Just follow the directions on timing and you won't get addicted. Don't be a martyr!!! Lol

I didn't say I wasn't taking them at

all. I said I stopped them and anyway I'm almost out so can't rely on those forever. They knocked me out and I need to work. Also I'd rather not be dependent on them. Drs office called yesterday suggesting tylonel which works every 3-4 hours. No name calling please. I came here to seek support.

I took two weeks off of work and I was glad I was able to. It gave my body a chance to heal and get my strength back. I hope you are able to get some rest soon. Take care of yourself. I got off the pain meds and onto Tylenol also.