Complications may be more likely to happen because of the type of surgery you are having or because of health conditions you already have. You can have a role in reducing the chance of complications happening by working with your medical team to improve your health conditions, which you can read about here, and by learning about what you can do after surgery to speed up your recovery.
Preventing breathing complications
Breathing complications, such as low oxygen levels or pneumonia, can be common after major surgery, especially if the surgery was on your chest or abdomen, or if you already have a breathing health condition such as smoking or COPD.
There are some simple steps you can take after your surgery to reduce the chance of having a breathing complication which are shown in this video.
Speeding up your recovery
After your surgery your body will be working hard to heal and recover. While you might need to rest more than usual, it is important that you keep working steadily toward increasing your activity levels back to normal.
There are lots of benefits to getting out of bed early and returning to normal activities, such as:
- Faster recovery from surgery and return to your normal level of health.
- Faster discharge from hospital.
- Better mood and energy levels.
- Less risk of chest infections or blood clots.
- Less constipation.
Set goals for yourself and aim to spend as much time out of bed as you can – either sitting in a chair, standing next to your bed, or taking short walks. On the ward the nurses and physiotherapists will help you with mobilising and pain relief will be available if needed.
It is very common to feel thirsty after surgery. You will normally be able to drink water soon after your operation. You can drink as much water as you feel able.
You may feel like you have lost your appetite. Unless your type of surgery requires you not to eat, it is usually easier to eat little and often. If you feel sick you can ask for medication to help.