This handout explains pain after surgery and what to expect. Pain is a normal part of healing. It is common after surgery. Most patients have less pain when they know their options. Less pain will help you heal faster. The goal is to get back to normal. It may not be possible to have no pain. We will work with you to manage your pain so that you can do everyday things like walking to the bathroom.
Things to Keep in Mind
Both medicine and non-medicine treatments can help with pain. Many people use two or more methods for the best relief.
Medicine options can include non-opioids and opioids.
Each person is different. People respond differently to the same dose of medicine.
We may not be able to get rid of all your pain.
There are many pain control options to help you feel more comfortable.
Sleeping is important and will help you heal.
Opioids
Opioid pain medicine may be needed if non-opioid pain relievers do not provide enough relief. Opioids will be stopped as soon as possible. Other medicines may be given at that time.
Side Effects
Opioids can cause side effects. Most side effects lessen over time. Some can be managed in other ways. You may have nausea and vomiting. If you can eat, take your pain medicine with food to help with this.
Constipation is another common side effect. Call your doctor if you have not had a bowel movement in 2-3 days. Some things that may help include:
Eating foods high in fiber.
Drinking fluids.
Taking a stool softener or laxative, if advised.
One of the more serious side effects is slower breathing. The risk is higher if you have sleep apnea or if you take other medicines that make you feel sleepy. Slower breathing can lead to more severe breathing problems and even death.
Another side effect is dizziness. Change positions slowly. For example, sit, then stand up slowly after lying down. You should also avoid alcohol.
Opioid Use Before Surgery
If you usually take opioid medicine, you may need higher doses after surgery. Pain control after surgery may be harder. We will watch closely to make sure you do not get too much medicine. Our goal is to get your pain back to the level you had before surgery.
Non-Opioids
Tylenol (acetaminophen) works well and has few side effects. This can be a good addition to your pain plan. At home, check your medicine labels for Tylenol. Look for anything with “APAP” or “acetaminophen” on the label. Do not take more than 4,000 mg daily. Too much Tylenol can damage your liver. Patients with liver disease must speak with their doctor before taking Tylenol.
Other Ways to Reduce Pain
Relaxed, deep breathing
Distraction (using different types of fidget toys: stress balls, pop its, infinity cubes, etc.)
Imagery (example: imagine a favorite vacation spot)
Massage
Aromatherapy
Music
Movies, videos, or TV
Talking with others
Games/puzzles
Walking
Quiet time
Keeping parts of your body elevated to help reduce swelling
Heat or cold packs (ask your nurse which is right for you)
TENS unit (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
MyChart Bedside iPads
Meditation or relaxation apps
Things to Discuss Before Surgery
Ask “Where will my pain be?” and “What can I expect?”
Share what things worked well in the past to help with pain. This could include medicine or other strategies. Talk about what did not help.
Provide a list of over-the-counter medicines or herbal supplements you take.
Discuss side effects you may have had in the past like upset stomach, constipation, or dizziness.
Rating Your Pain
The scale below helps your healthcare team understand your pain and ability to function. You can also use the words mild, moderate, or severe. You may also describe your pain based on how it affects your daily activities. Ask for medicine when you first feel pain. Do not wait until it gets severe.
When to Call
While in the hospital, let the nurse know if you have pain that is not controlled or if you are having any side effects. After you go home, call the clinic where your surgeon works to report pain that isn’t going away or side effects.
Who to Call
If you have questions, please contact your provider through MyChart or call your provider listed in your After Visit Summary or After Hospital Care Plan.
For a list of UW Health Clinics, please visit www.uwhealth.org/.