Lobectomy 2 days ago

[VerdeAzul]

Wow! This has been rough. Right after operation everything seemed very positive, pain under control and good breathing. Then that evening my blood pressure started dropping, so they've had to do alternate pain meds to epidural. Now my sodium is low.

Yesterday was an especially rough day, between the pain and the general discomfort I'm very discouraged. Lots of tears.

Breathing has been hard too, so they gave me a breathing treatment last night. Still in ICU, hoping to move to step down later today.

Trying to hang in there... just very tired.

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer]

Send hope, prayers and healing mojo. It’s been almost 8 years since my VATS so I’m vague on how long before I started feeling normal or close to it.

Rest as best you can. Pain will make you feel discouraged. You’re reaction is natural and to be expected. The emotional part that is. Please let us know if they get the BP and pain under control. Rest.

[VerdeAzul in reply to Denzie]

Thank you, Denie. BP and sodium under control, we're still working on the pain.

[JanetteR57]

First off, well done on the surgery - not many of us are eligible for it - 8+ years since my lobectomy. Tears are often relief, anaesthetic and exhaustion - don't worry about that. Breathlessness will be worse for a few days as the lung settles down and you start to work it. Sodium (and potassium) levels often fluctuate dependent on the meds so again a 'normal' response. I was very relieved that my surgeon had explained beforehand what machines I'd be wired up to and how I might feel in the initial recovery period post surgery. There is now a really helpful booklet that my specialist surgical centre wrote (together with a DVD) that was adopted into Roy Castle's booklet. Have a look online on their website under 'how we help, 'information', 'treatments' 'surgery' 'my lung surgery'. It outlines average milestones so you can assess your 'norm'. It's a major op (whether keyhole or open) and your body will need time to heal on the inside and outside and your mind to come to terms with both the diagnosis and treatment. Be kind to yourself - you can do this. thinking of you. good luck with your ongoing recovery. x

[VerdeAzul in reply to JanetteR57]

Thank you janetteR57. Yes, coming to terms with both the diagnosis and the treatment has been hard. Feeling better today.

[Memaw0100]

I hate it’s so hard for you. I had this surgery over 5 years ago, but remember it well. My biggest discomfort was the chest tubes. I actually went home with one for a couple days. I felt like a new person when that came out!. Take it easy. It will get better!

[VerdeAzul in reply to Memaw0100]

Thank you, Memaw0100. They took the last tube out about 2 hours ago, can't even fathom having to go home with it!

[Feelingblessed2013]

I've had this surgery twice, lost both upper lobes. First one was 6 years ago this month, second was 15 months ago. You will start to feel better, it just takes time. If you have a recliner at home, it will probably become your best friend for at least a few weeks.

Keep in touch, let us know how you are doing.

[VerdeAzul in reply to Feelingblessed2013]

Thank you, KatherineK. Better today... all tubes out, and, yes, we have a recliner waiting for me at home! Can't wait!

[judg69]

Hi VerdeAzul, you will get better . Believe it and be positive toward your recovery. What is absolutely essential is to get up and move around as often and as long as is reasonably comfortable and to do your breathing exercises diligently. Ask for and use an Aerobika or other lung exerciser, and use it as often as you can throughout the day, while watching tv or on your iPad, whatever. All Best Wishes, judg69

[VerdeAzul in reply to judg69]

Thank you, judg69. I've been walking around the hospital corridors and now that all the tubes are out, it should be easier to move. My body feels like it needs to move more, but everything I do is exhausting!

[Palmdalegirl]

I’ve had this surgery twice, and I know things don’t seem like they’re going good now, but it’s only been two days, and trust me, you will get better. It takes time to heal from this, and it will take several months before you feel like yourself again. Just hang in there, it will get better.

[VerdeAzul in reply to Palmdalegirl]

Thank you, Palmdalegirl.

[Travelhappy]

Hang in there, we know it can be a little overwhelming, but give it a couple of weeks. Sending good energy your way.

[VerdeAzul in reply to Travelhappy]

Thank you, Travelhappy.

[Hidden]

I had an upper right lobectomy 2015,just keep taking the analgesia and keep moving it gets easier eventually .Increase your walking distances slowly .Big tip don't get constipated from strong analgesia take what ever works .Otherwise this also becomes a problem too.You will get better it just takes time .If your having a bad day relax ,tomorrow's another day ,be kind to yourself .Take care Diane

[VerdeAzul in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, Diane55. It's been so intense! As the doctor said, most of te unusual side effects that could happen, happened. However, I was finally sent home last night, and its been so good to be here.

Now to manage the pain and clear up the lungs, and get my strength back!