Good Way to Sneeze?

Hi Sisters!

I am 11 days post-op from LAVH w RSO. Unfortunately, my allergies have kicked into overdrive as of yesterday. On meds to control but does anyone have a suggestion as to HOW to sneeze without feeling like your belly will explode?

Right now, about all I do is curl into a fetal position as fast as possible, but would appreciate your suggestions.

Thanks,
Andrea

I have a post-surgical tummy binder (just like a big, wide elastic band w/ velcro) that I've been wearing on and off. It's been really helpful for sneezing bcs. it gives support even if you don't have time to grab a pillow and curl up! The brand I got is adjustable and pretty comfortable.

In my first early weeks it hurt so much to sneeze,
I finally just held my breath until the feeling subsided
[ I know crazy] but I hated that feeling like your insides
would explode. lol

Don't try to be mannerly about your sneezes... just let it go, opened mouthed and loud. I'm sure not a pretty sight but it lets most of the pressure of the sneeze out through your mouth and not in your gut. Also try to take a deep breath through your mouth when you feel a sneeze come on. Sometimes that helps the feeling go away.

Place a pillow or rolled up towel over your tummy and hold it tightly against yourself, being careful not to push too hard on your belly. I'm almost six weeks and this has worked for me. I thought I was going to die the first time I sneezed!!!

Thanks All! I've been trying to do a bit of everything. I must HIGHLY recommend the "ugly" sneeze with mouth open...it ain't pretty, but it worked the best so far. Although...the first time I did it, I couldn't help laughing at myself which also isn't too comfortable

Thanks for the great replies!

Andrea

I have allergies and when I feel a sneeze coming, I start to blow my nose (gently so as not to hurt tummy) and it stops the urge to sneeze for me.

I used a pillow.

Any time I laughed, sneezed or cough. I had a pillow ( throw pillow of sorts) and I would clutch it to my tummy ( light pressure) and that would help support me. It still hurt true, it was a HUGE improvement though over sneezing "solo" (without pillow).

*hugs*

It gets better with time though hun.

-LBS

Turn your head to the side when you have to sneeze or cough. You use a different set of muscles that way and it lessens the strain on your ab muscles.

Also, as others have said, holding a pillow helps immensely.