HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Post Op Pain Relief

Support Forums
>
GERD & Acid Reflux
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 10/7/2013 3:24 PM (GMT 0)
I am concerned about the type of pain relief I may be offered when I eventually have surgery.

I cannot tolerate what we call in the UK co-codamol (a combination of codeine and paracetamol) as it makes me really nauseous. If I have the Nissen this is worrying as it may cause damage to the wrap if I throw up or start retching.
I cannot tolerate NSAIDS (Ibuprofen etc.) as they cause stomach pain.

What might I be offered, if anything, as an alternative?

Thank you all so much for being there and taking time out of your day to respond. I appreciate it more than you'll ever know.
Posted 10/7/2013 4:41 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Noelle.

I don't tolerate codeine either; it causes me to vomit (used to, post op now can only heave). NSAIDS and acetominofen never touch any post-op pain for me, irritate my stomach too.

Fortunately there are more pain relief meds and Zofran and scopalomine for nausea.

I always carry a list of my meds I don't tolerate with me, right into the pre-op room so I can hand it to the anesthesiologist. I have a list of meds that do work for me too. I ask for a scopalomine in the pre-op room. I ask for Zofran post-op if it hasn't been given during the op. I ask for it to be given during the op too. I expect to be given meds that cause nausea during the op.

I have another copy for the surgeon when I'm being discharged and given prescriptions to fill on the way home. I have developed a tolerance to Vicodin 5mg, so I tell them I need 10 mg NORCO which has less acetominofen.

Start writing down your meds you don't tolerate right now. Keep going with a journal to keep track of reactions - do a little search for "food journal" using the search box at the top of the page.

Best wishes!
Posted 10/7/2013 10:21 PM (GMT 0)
Noelle-- A competent physician will complete a detailed health history regarding your ability to tolerate pain meds. Prior to surgery, most hospitals review concerns with patients and the patient provides detailed information about any medical conditions or intolerance to medications. They will have this information before you have the surgery. The anesthesiologist will also conduct a medical history with you. When I had my Nissen, the hospital made sure that I was given anti nausea medication to prevent vomiting.
Posted 10/8/2013 12:10 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you Alcie and Ian for that reassuring information.
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply