After you have surgery, going home may seem like a lot to deal with.
But there's a lot you can do to take care of yourself ... so you can heal ...
and avoid problems ...
and that helps you get better at home and avoid going back to the hospital.
Now ... it's important to follow any instructions you're given.
Here are some key things to remember.
First, watch out for infection.
Call your doctor if you have any bleeding ... or signs of infection, such as: ... increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness ...
red streaks leading from the incision ...
pus draining from the incision ... or a fever.
Ask your doctor when you can take off your bandage ...
and when it's okay to shower.
It's important to keep your cut ... your incision ... dry at first while it's healing.
So you may need to take sponge baths for a while.
Another important part of your care is to follow your doctor's instructions about taking medicines ...
such as pain medicines, antibiotics, or pills to prevent blood clots.
Taking your medicines the right way is important for your recovery ...
and it helps you avoid serious problems.
Make a list of all the medicines you take to help you keep track of them ...
and go over it with your doctor.
Also ... if your doctor says it's okay, stay as active as you can.
But follow any instructions about limiting your activities.
Your care provider may have you do activities that help keep your lungs healthy, such as deep breathing.
And activity ... like walking ... can help build your strength ...
and may even help keep your bowels regular.
Moving may help prevent blood clots too.
So move around, and try to limit your time in bed if you can.
And ... watch for signs of a blood clot.
Signs include ... calf or leg pain ... redness ... swelling in the leg or groin ...
shortness of breath ... or chest pain.
These are serious symptoms ...
so if you have any of them, get emergency help right away.
Another key to getting well is to keep yourself healthy.
It helps you stay strong and feel your best.
So ... try to eat healthy foods and drink enough fluids ... don't smoke ...
and get plenty of rest.
Now ... this might seem like a lot to remember ...
but all of these things are important ...
because they can help you heal and recover at home.
So the key things are ...
watch out for infection ... take your medicines ... stay active ...
but follow precautions about activity ... and keep a healthy lifestyle.
By taking good care of yourself each day ...
you'll be well on your way to getting better.
