Normal??

I am 17 days post op from open surgery.  I had my stitches out yesterday.  They went in thru my back and I still have some soreness from the two incisions.  Nothing that I can't deal with, I just have to remember not to do too much and use that arm as it is right under my left shoulder - however, I am left handed so it can be difficult.  My issue now is the pain still in the left side of my tummy - it is still quite swollen and tender and I am uncomfortable from it most of the time.  I find using my hot rice bag seems to help. My tummy is covered with bruises so I guess that explains the pain. I am also having trouble with my bowels, I've been taking senocot, miralax, prune juice every day but still sporadic (twice since surgery).  I've had a lot of what felt like GERD since the surgery and wakes me at night my surgeon told me it was from gas so prescribed Gas X - started that yesterday.  I also am still eating a mostly liquid diet - cream of wheat, applesauce, cottage cheese and yogurt.  I've tried some whipped potatoes with some gravy or milk and I find when I eat something heavier I get the hicups that hurt then the feeling of not being able to swallow - that lasts a few minutes but enough to panic me.  Is this still normal?

We are planning to head south in a few days, by car, I do have some pain meds for the trip, if needed.

thanks,

thanks Joy - I've been walking every day and  I've always drunk a lot of water so I'm continuing that I drink about 5 bottles of water a day.  Maybe I need to drink more.  The senocot is a stool softener which I've been taking since the hospital.  Perhaps I need to eat more, but I can't seem to each much.  Glad the hicps are normal, they hurt but I'll not worry now.

thanks,

Senna. Senna is used on a short-term basis to treat constipation. It also is used to empty the bowels before surgery and certain medical procedures. Senna is in a class of medications called stimulant laxatives. It works by increasing activity of the intestines to cause a bowel movement. It is not described as a stool softener. Suggest you go ahead and call the doctor and see what he recommends at this point of your recovery. Also, some docs don't use mineral oil as it absorbs certain nutrients on its way out. This is not medical advice but please check with doc. Wish you the best and have a great trip. We're thinking of you during your recovery. Keep us posted.