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3 wks post op Vaginal hysterectomy, pain keeps increasing w/ concerns
I had a vaginal/laparoscopic hysterectomy on September 8th this year due to endometriosis.
This was my 3rd laparoscopic surgery in 2 years. I was diagnosed with endo in 2021, diagnosed with pelvic congestion syndrome in 2022, and have been living with fibromyalgia (along with other health issues) since I was a teen. (I just turned 31 in August and do not have any kids.)
My hemoglobin level was extremely low day prior to my surgery, I received 2 transfusions, 1 during procedure and 1 after.
I have been having consistent pain since I got home and only had spotting for 3 days.
I however have only had 2 bowel movements since the day of my surgery and have extreme nausea, along with not being able to keep food down. Because I haven’t been able to keep food down almost every day, I have now lost 17 pounds in 22 days. I’m 5’4 and normally weigh 125.
My doc is having me see a GI specialist and an endocrinologist to help figure out why my hemoglobin keeps dropping so low and fast.
I started bleeding with extreme cramping and pain this afternoon. I still have the “full and heavy” feeling in my stomach but the pain is sharp, fast and intense.
Has anyone had an experience like this? My doctor seems to be on top of it but I don’t feel like this is normal especially considering my hemoglobin levels are so low (6.9 as of last week).
Thank you if you read everything & reply 🙏
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kaileyd @kaileyd
Seeing it is the start of weekend, if it continues or gets worse, think about going to ER. Especially if you have a fever. This is not normal.
I assume they took your appendix during surgery, if not you may have appendicitis.
Are you on any pain meds, they can cause constipation and nausea.
Laurie
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1 Reaction@kaileyd I had a robotic laparascopic hysterectomy in 2019 for endometrial cancer. I did not other health issues at the time and my hemoglobin count was in a normal range. My recovery following the surgery was quick and I did not have any of the symptoms you are experiencing.
I’m concerned about your ongoing pain, constipation and the development of bleeding and cramping. Do you have a call in to your doctor? Someone from their practice will be on call this weekend. Do you have a fever? If you aren’t feeling any better this morning I recommend you go to your local ER at the hospital.
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1 ReactionThey did not take my appendix out during the surgery.
I was prescribed Percocet along with an enema to do at home because of the constipation and pain level.
My doctor did call and instruct me to come in Monday if it’s not improved.
I just find it strange I’m starting to bleed now rather than longer after my surgery date.
Thank you!
No fever but I just have the overall feeling ill if that makes sense. I go in to see my doctor Monday morning. It’s such a tough place to be in since I’ve learned how to live with pain, I am always second guessing if it’s valid to be seen or feel like I’m over reacting 🤦🏼♀️ Pain has slowed down at this moment but if it starts up again I will visit the ER.
Thank you for your response 🙏
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1 Reaction@kaileyd It’s a relief that you will see your doctor on Monday morning. You know your body better than anyone. That’s why my primary care provider (unfortunately, now retired) used to tell me and he really listened to me. So, you aren’t overreacting. You had a major procedure not all that long ago and you’re experiencing more pain instead of less pain. It’s good that you’ve decided to go to the ER if the pain gets any worse.
You could ask your doctor about your pain meds (Percocet). My understanding is that many pain meds result in constipation and so it’s recommended that people use gentle stool softeners like Miralax or Metamucil. Both are the over the counter but I’d recommend that you talk with your doctor before adding anything else to what you’re already taking. Walking helps too although with the pain you’re experiencing that might not be something you can easily do right now.
kaileyd @kaileyd
Thinking of you, did you get any answers on monday.
Hope your doing better.
Laurie
@kaileyd Did you see your doctor yesterday? How are you feeling today?