Surgery went well 9 months ago , recovery has been slow but steady with feeding tube coming out in January. Initially I had problems with dumping syndrome at times excruciating pain bloating etc with the only relief coming when I managed to beltch and release pressure. Now these problems are behind me and I can eat as I did pre operation.
Physically I feel good ,can even cut my grass but I do struggle with fatigue. As scar tissue has healed feeling has improved around my scare and belly. Now however I tend to get some pain on my on left hand side and back, almost like a stitch which I can control with paracetamol. I do not however wish to overload on over the counter drugs . Has anyone suffered similar symptoms and if so how do/ did you overcome it.
My GI Nurse keeps reminding me to take things steady for at least 12 months post surgery.. so taking it easy on yourself should help reduce pain.. however on a practical note I found soluble paracetamol more effective than tablets. Hope this helps
Congrats on your textbook surgery and recovery. Very few have that. Its great to see you are doing great mentally and physically.
As KfromUK said going easy is good. Having said that fatigue is default issue with oesophagectomy.
However this needs to be checked against lack of nutritional and vitamins.
Especially if your Vitamin B12 levels gone down then fatigue will be issue. Please ask GP for blood test to co firm and if required injections or over the counter supplements. Including iron.
You are doing good, keep at it. But must remind to go easy on your body to recover meaning taking proper and full rest and having days without physical exertion.
Fatigue is common after oesophagectomy and can last for years, depending on age and general fitness. Stitch like pain in side and back is also common, but should get better with time. Physiotherapy can help, as can gentle exercise. As others have said, take it easy.
Folks thanks for all the replies and information , I'll have to learn to be patient
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
Pain still in ribs post Ivor Lewis
Ivor Lewis Procedure. 5 months on.
Nearly 2 months after my op !
Awfully worried about pain in right side 3 years after Ivor Lewis op
