FrankTalk.org

Seems like with the meds that surgeons prescribe there is still a lot of pain. Keep in mind I've never had surgery before. Is it just that the meds reduce excruciating pain to a SOMEWHAT bearable level? Are there any stories of minimal pain? I've only seen about two such stories.

Pain is a difficult condition of life that has physiological and psychological components. If a person feels a pain and interprets as an ominous sign (cancer, infection, worsening condition), the pain has an intensity factor that is missing if it is considered a minor improving issue.

Having said that, pain meds work and can control pain and even eradicate pain depending on the level of pain. One of the most important principles is; do NOT chase pain.
This means take your meds, do not put off pain relief until you feel bad pain. If you do it will take a minimum of 20 minutes for the painkiller to get in your system even if you chew it. It will take another 20 minutes to reach the optimal level. It is generally understood that it is much easier to prevent pain than to let it get ahead of you and then get rid of it.

ALWAYS take stool softeners with EVERY prescription painkiller. Dealing with serious opioid-induced constipation as you are recovering from surgery is not an experience you want to have.

Thanks. Should I try to stay up first night to stay ahead of the crucial night for pain?

I would think sleep actually decreased pain.

Tsanchez12369 wrote:I would think sleep actually decreased pain.

Exactly, your pain management does not require voluntary sleep deprivation. Just take your meds. you will be fine and it will be behind you.