Surgery table
The technical term for removing a gall bladder is a cholecystectomy. There are several reasons a gall bladder may need to be removed. The gall bladder may be inflamed, there may be damage from some gall stones, or the bile ducts may have become clogged. Once you have the surgery to remove your gall bladder, you will need to begin the process of recovery.
Keep an Eye Out
Once the surgery is complete you may be able to go home the same day. When you do, you will need to keep an eye out for a few things. Take your temperature. If you begin to have a fever over 100 degrees F, you will need to call your doctor. Keep an eye on your incision. If it begins to bleed or seep pus, you will also need to contact your doctor. You should also be concerned if the incision begins to feel warm to the touch. Finally, you can expect to feel pain after the surgery, but if it continues to get worse there could be a problem.
Medications
There are a few medications that your doctor may order directly after the surgery. They will most likely be given to you while you are still asleep through your IV. You may receive a dose of antibiotics which are commonly given after any type of surgery to prevent infection. You may also be given medication to prevent nausea and vomiting, which commonly occurs in patients who go through a gall bladder operation. Finally, your doctor will prescribe you some pain medication to use at home on an as needed basis.
Recovery Time
Recovery time can be different for each person, but should be complete within six to eight weeks. The first few days you may be sore and still need to take some pain medication. During that time you should stay away from driving or operating any machines. After those few days are up you can begin to go back to your daily routine. This does not include any heavy lifting or strenuous exercises. After six to eight weeks you can once again exercise and lift objects without any worry. You should have seen the doctor for a check up by this time and he will let you know what you are capable of doing.
