Laparoscopy - How Do I Alleviate Symptoms Caused by the CO2 Gas?

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Laparoscopy - How Do I Alleviate Symptoms Caused by the CO2 Gas?

Laparoscopy - How Do I Alleviate Symptoms Caused by the CO2 Gas?

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Ask A Doctor

I am experiencing a lot of bloating and discomfort from the gas used in the laparascopic procedure. Is there any way of minimizing this and how long can I expect the feeling to last? Right now I feel as though my stomach is going to explode and my shoulder is so sore! Help!

During a laparoscopic surgery, CO2 is used to fill the abdomen and lift it away from the internal organs, giving the surgeon a better view for the procedure. Even though the CO2 is removed following surgery, the gas can become trapped against the diaphragm, causing pain and discomfort that can then radiate into the shoulder because of pressure on the phrenic nerve.

Heat and pain medications often bring relief. Try using two heating pads--one on the front and one on the back of the affected shoulder. If you are not taking medication for pain, ask your doctor which one might work best to alleviate your gas related pain.

Also for the shoulder pain, some hospitals recommend lying on your side and bringing your knees up to your chest. Hold this position for 5 to 15 minutes. As this can be difficult post hysterectomy, check with your doctor first. Lying on your back with your hips elevated on several pillows may also help.

To help dissipate the gas, consider peppermint tea, ginger ale, or carrot juice. Some doctors recommend drinking warm liquids. Carbonated drinks should be avoided for a few days.

Walking may help any trapped gas to dissipate and over the counter gas aids could help with any intestinal gas issues.

Within a few days, the pain should subside.

As always, check with your doctor for advice and before trying any medications including over the counter products.

This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.

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Find A Doctor Near You

Scott Dinesen, M.D. 599 W State Street Suite 301 Doylestown PA 18901 215 489-2066	Stephen Zweibach, M.D. 815 S Parsons Ave Brandon FL 33511 8135712777	Bret Lewis, M.D. 5780 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Ste 295 (#2 Location) 11975 Morris Rd., Ste. 310 , Alpharetta, GA 30004 Atlanta GA 30342 404-255-3633
David Newman, M.D. 10030 Edison Square Drive, Suite 100A Concord NC 28027 704-403-7670	Sean Kossari, M.D. 14901 Rinaldi Street Suite 320 Mission Hills CA 91345 818-365-1616	Molly Senokozlieff, M.D. 9279 A Medical Plaza Dr. North Charleston SC 29406 843-569-2900
Byungyol Chun, M.D. Northern Essex Women's Health 360 Merrimack St Entrance G Lawrence MA 01843 978-557-9060	Amie Napier, M.D. Medical City Hospital 7777 Forest Lane Suite A331 Dallas TX 75230 9725667760	Terry Grogg, M.D. 4461 S Broadway Suite 200 Suite 200 Grove City OH 43123 614-875-0444

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