3 weeks post op: Is this normal?

Hi everyone-
I drove for the first time today, and even though it was only a few miles, I was hurting. I had to get a prescription filled, and as I was walking around the store picking up a few things to buy, I was sore. I've been in pain every day to some degree or other, sometimes it's just soreness/pulling and other times its burning and stronger pain.
My doc said (pre-op) no driving first two weeks, then only drive if absolutely necessary for the next two weeks.
Also I have a huge swelly belly, some days it's more swollen than other days, but I get embarassed walking around in public with it.
So am I being a wimp? I was walking every day for about 20 minutes a day, but haven't done that in about a week due to the pain.
Interested in knowing how others did at week 3.

Hi Ruthanne,

Sorry you're discouraged with the pain, but it sound to me like you might have overdone it. Walking for 20 minutes a day that early might have been too much for you. Some walking is very good for getting circulation going, etc., but if it's too much and causes you pain, it then becomes counter-productive. Maybe 5-10 minutes per day would have been better that soon.

Same with driving a few miles at 3 weeks. That's a long way to go for your first drive. I wasn't really comfortable driving anywhere but the shortest distances until I was 5 weeks post-op. Try to get someone to help you with those errands if you can.

About the swelly-belly: This is SO common...try not to feel too embarrassed by it. The best thing for swelly-belly is to get lots more rest OFF your feet...horizontally. The more time you spend upright (that includes sitting), the more pressure you put on those countless internal stitches, which may cause more pain and swelling. Your body is telling you that it need to concentrate on all the healing, which means you need to be resting!

Pamper yourself...you're a princess!

My very best to you...

Linda

Early recovery is 6 to 8 weeks. You need to be taking it very easy for awhile longer.

Hi Ruthanne, as I recall the third week was the worst for me. I was more swollen and had enough water retention to float a large ship. Driving hurts!! And not that we ladies are bad drivers or anything, but what if you were in an accident. You could really do some damage there. I have seen surgical wounds open up in wrecks and have to heal by second intention, that is they leave them open and they heal from the inside out. Not a pretty picture. I waited to drive untill I could go up and down stairs without hurting. That way I knew I could raise my foot and apply the brakes quickly if I needed to. Plus if you drive, you need to be off the pain meds for at least 4 hours. Take it slow, Linda gives great advice, we have all been where you are right now and we are with you. Take time to heal, you'll be glad you did.