Common Things That Delay Post-Surgery Recovery

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After any surgical procedure, you must rest and heal. Certain practices can hinder your recovery time. Keep reading to learn about the common things that often delay post-surgery recovery. The next time you undergo a procedure, you’ll know what to avoid.

Table of Contents

Consuming the Wrong Foods

After a procedure, you may not be in the mood to eat a lot. However, your body still needs fuel. Consuming the right foods and nutrients and following a post-surgery meal plan are critical. Failure to follow such plans can hinder your recovery and lead to discomfort.

For instance, you shouldn’t eat solids right after gastric bypass surgery because they may lodge in your stomach and lead to ongoing nausea. In this case, starting with a liquid diet is best.

Starting Work Too Soon

Recovery time is “you time.” But during rest, you may feel guilty for not working. Don’t give in to the pressure of resuming work before your body is ready. Physical and mental stress from a job can affect your body and recovery process, and you don’t want to risk injuring yourself while you’re healing.

Ignoring Body Pain

Body soreness is common after surgery, especially if you underwent an extensive procedure. However, assessing your body during the recovery stage and taking note of any issues are crucial. Persistent pain may be a sign of post-op complications. Don’t ignore any aches, especially if they get worse. Reach out to your doctor for medical assistance if necessary.

Staying in Bed Too Long

Surprisingly, staying in bed too long is another thing that can delay post-surgery recovery. Of course, rest is optimal for healing. But lying in bed for long periods of time can trigger blood clots and weaken your muscles. Physical activity can wake up your body while keeping you on track to recovery. Short walks will circulate your blood as you gradually resume typical tasks. However, check with your doctor before engaging in strenuous activities such as running or weight-lifting. If your doctor clears you for such activities, then you can incorporate the exercise into your recovery time.