easily exhausted?

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pmandell

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I am 3 weeks post op and am getting around well, even without a cane. My biggest problem is that I am so easily exhausted when I walk up steps, try to do housework, etc. I get breathless and need to sit down. Has anyone else experienced this? When does it get better? (I am only taking Advil for pain so I don't think it is due to pain meds.)
Thanks for your insight!
Pat
 
The exhaustion is very common. This is major surgery, and it takes a lot out of a person. There is major healing taking place that uses many of your body's resources. Also, if you have general anesthesia, it takes a long time for that to fully "wear off". Be as patient as you can with yourself (I must learn to take my own advice!) I'm personally in awe that Advil is enough for your pain control.
 
Hi Pat i felt just the same and it took me a few weeks to gain my strenght back.When i look back i remember thinking that i would never regain my energy or be the same again.Now 4mths on i feel so much better (apart from my setback) i think we have to realise that this is a major op and should not expect too much too soon just sit back and be kind to ourselves Pam
 
Gosh, you went through some pretty tough surgery three weeks ago. It is going to take you quite a while to lose that exhausted feeling or it did me. I was getting around easily enough but only in short spurts. Spent most of my time napping (so delicious) and of course, icing and elevating. Don't worry it will pass in time but you are still early on as far as recovery goes. I don't see how some of the folks here managed to go back to work at three and four weeks, I couldn't have done it, was just too tired, needed my naps. Good luck. Rowdy
 
3 weeks and you're only taking Advil? And you wonder why you are easily feeling tired? Dear lady, it's not only that you've had major surgery that takes weeks for your body to recover from, but pain will also make you tired. Are you really, truly sure that the Advil controls ALL the pain? Or are you trying to tough it out in between doses?

Honest now!
 
I am almost 4 weeks post op and I know exactly what you mean. I sometimes feel like there's a switch inside that turns me off like a lamp. I just give in and rest without guilt. ADVIL ONLY?? Wow, I am impressed because I don't think I could do every day things at all with only Advil to curb the pain. It took me a long time (and much help from this board) to finally admit and believe that this is a major body shocker and it takes time. I am looking forward to a walk around the block in a month or so - October is a great month in Illinois and my favorite time of year. (I hate hot weather.) I think the most active thing I've done is change the sheets on my bed. That was a major effort. But I have done laundry and dishes too and not much else. Taking a shower, drying my hair, putting on make up and getting dressed is a BIG event! I live alone so there's no one to do those things but I feel that I have coped well so far. Let your body rest. I have faith that better days are coming for me and I DO notice very small things that have improved day by day.
 
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