I am 4 days post op and I have terrible pain in the middle of my rib cage. It comes in waves and only lasts a few seconds but it’s crippling.

5 minutes ago, Brassapple said:

I am 4 days post op and I have terrible pain in the middle of my rib cage. It comes in waves and only lasts a few seconds but it’s crippling.

This would be something you should contact your surgical team about... seriously, get on the phone asap.

Check you hospital discharge directions.

Mine said one of the reasons why you should contact your surgeon's office is:

Chest pain, rapid heartbeat and/or dizziness

Thanks guys will put a call in today.

First, I haven't had surgery yet. Second, but most important, contact your doctor right away.

Third, my 2 cents, I get what you are describing and in my case they are esophageal spasms. They are caused, in my case, by GERD. I have to take omeprazole daily to manage them because they are extremely painful and even with the med I still get them just not as often. It feels like you are having a heart attack.

Aside from the omeprazole, when I get one, drinking cold water helps to stop them right away. Now remember, I am pre-surgery so I am not sure if that will help. When you call your doc ask them if its ok to try until they can see you. Good luck.

I had these to for about 6 days I’m 14 days post op now and they have stopped. I still get them when I eat but my surgeon said it’s just my stomach trying to re learn how to push the food down.

Thanks Sophstar that makes a lot of sense.