Gallbladder Surgery Aftercare: How to Sleep After Gallbladder Surgery?

Many organs play important roles in the digestion of our food. The gallbladder is one such organ that is essential for digestion. It is an organ located on the right side of the body underneath the liver. Its primary role is to collect and store bile. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver which aids in the breakdown of fats during digestion.

Inflammation, infection and formation of tiny gallstones can occur in the gallbladder. Thus, a gallbladder removal surgery is necessary in some cases. Otherwise, these conditions can lead to excessive gallbladder pain and discomfort.

Gallbladder removal surgery, also known as cholecystectomy is a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure with very few complications. The procedure entails surgically removing gallbladder tissue to avoid potential problems and ease the pain.

It can be performed either via laparoscopic or open surgery approach.

• Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery involves inserting a tiny camera and surgical equipment through small incisions made around the abdomen. Following that, the gallbladder tissues are removed.
• Open surgery entails creating a large incision on the belly and then removing the gallbladder through that incision. The incision is sutured after the surgery is completed.

Gallbladder surgery aftercare, like any other surgery, is critical for a speedy recovery and the avoidance of problems. One of the most common concerns that people raise after gallbladder surgery is: how to sleep after gallbladder surgery and why it is so crucial to follow adequate gallbladder surgery aftercare. 

How long does it take to recover after the surgery of gallbladder?

In case of laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, the patient is normally discharged the same day. But in the event of open surgery, the patient may be kept in the hospital for a few days for monitoring.

The recuperation time after surgery might take around 4–6 weeks. The below are some common symptoms you might observe right after the surgery.

• As the anaesthesia effect wears off, nausea and dizziness are to be expected immediately following the operation. Patients become more conscious of their surroundings and the doctor often advises the patients to walk within a few hours. Walking and routine exercise can help restore circulation. In addition, the doctor provides a set of instructions and recommendations, as well as a list of activities to avoid for a few days after the operation.
• Pain and discomfort are unavoidable during surgery. Pain-relieving medications are commonly used to lessen the pain. The discomfort is temporary and the body will recover in a few days.
• It might be difficult to eat normal solid food following gallbladder surgery. You may get diarrhoea or nausea at first, but this will subside quickly.
• Generally, gallbladder surgery involves pumping air into the abdominal cavity to create a room. This allows the surgeon to do the treatment more efficiently. However, the process may result in significant bloating. You may feel exceedingly bloated 3 days after the operation. This bloating and swelling is just transitory and will go away as the air is expelled.

What causes sleep difficulties after the surgery?

• Right after the operation, there is some anaesthesia after-effect. This might interfere with your usual sleeping pattern and cause you to stay awake at night.
• Insomnia after surgery is also a common problem.
• Various post-surgical drugs can potentially disrupt the usual sleep pattern.
• After surgery, there is stress, which is a natural physiological response to surgical trauma. Stress can lead people to stay awake at night.
• Abdominal bloating and pressure might also lead to sleep difficulties.
• Staying in the hospital for the surgery and a change in routine can also disrupt the sleep schedule.

Why is it important to take proper gallbladder surgery aftercare?

Sleep is very much essential for the body’s optimal recovery and healing. However, having surgery can affect the sleep cycle and the general quality of sleep. The stress of the operation, as well as the side effects, make it difficult to sleep comfortably.

It is critical to take adequate care after the surgery since recovery is dependent on it.

Getting enough rest aids in the healthy repair of your body and the renewal of cells. It assists the body in regaining the strength needed to return to its pre-surgery state.

That is why getting adequate rest and sleeping well is critical and plays a big part in gallbladder surgery aftercare.

Gallbladder surgery aftercare

The first step in gallbladder surgery aftercare is to educate yourself on the process and learn how to take care of your body. Once the surgery is over, talk to your doctor about your health and constitute a specific aftercare plan.

• A personalised aftercare plan is created in accordance with your health and physical health to assist you in resuming your usual life. This strategy consists of a good diet, a workout routine and a medicine schedule.
• Following up with your doctor after the surgery and going for regular follow-ups after the treatment is critical. This allows the doctor to constantly monitor you and examine your sleeping patterns.
• Your doctor may ask you questions regarding the duration of your sleep, the quality of your sleep, any nighttime discomfort or any changes in your sleeping pattern to better understand your recovery status.
• Being honest and upfront with your doctor at this stage is critical and you must not hide any facts since you do not want any factor interfering with your recovery.

What are some common things you should follow to sleep well after gallbladder surgery?

The following are some typical suggestions for improving your sleep quality after gallbladder surgery.

• Correct sleeping position: As much as the gallbladder operation, the proper sleeping posture is critical. Because the gallbladder is located on the right side of the body and is removed from there, the post-surgery incisions will also be on the right side. Sleeping appropriately in an optimal sleeping position is necessary to avoid putting excessive and unneeded pressure on the incisions immediately after the surgery. Applying further pressure might result in serious consequences. For a few days, avoid sleeping on your right side or directly on your incisions. It is generally recommended that you sleep on your back or the other side. Avoid sleeping with your face down, as this might put additional strain on the wounds.

• Taking your meds as directed: Following surgery, your doctor may prescribe pain relievers and medicines to aid with post-surgical pain and discomfort. It is critical to take all of your prescription medications on schedule since they can assist in alleviating discomfort. It also allows you to sleep better and easier. Taking pain relievers a few hours before bed can guarantee you a fine sleep and not wake you up in discomfort.

• Your sleeping environment is really important.

The surroundings and ambience of the room you sleep in have a significant impact on your sleep quality following gallbladder surgery.

• It is critical to maintain a pleasant sleeping temperature. A room that is overly cold or hot might cause you to wake up frequently and not allow you to sleep effectively.
• Choosing a comfortable mattress after gallbladder surgery is a crucial element of post-surgical treatment. A comfy mattress with adequate support, may aid you to sleep more comfortably. You should choose a mattress that is neither too firm nor too soft.
• You can use adjustable bed frames and pillows following the surgery to maintain your comfort and support.
• It is essential to sleep on clean bedsheets and practise adequate sleep hygiene before going to bed.
• Make certain that the area in which you are sleeping is peaceful and soothing.

• Following a proper diet after the surgery: Diet is most likely one of the most important factors that affect the quality of your sleep as well as your ability to heal and relax properly. After the surgery, the doctor normally suggests eating a nutrient-rich and balanced diet low in oily and fatty ingredients. Some general tips which should be followed to ensure better sleep after gallbladder surgery are:

• Avoid eating anything heavy just before going to bed. You should always consume smaller meals throughout the day to aid digestion. Eating one huge meal will result in it not being digested completely. This will not allow you to sleep properly and your sleeping time will be disrupted.
• Another key element to consider with your diet is to avoid eating too many carbohydrates, fatty meals and sugary or sweet substances. This is because they are difficult to digest and can interfere with your quality of sleep.
• Consumption of alcohol is prohibited, especially before going to bed and after surgery, because it can lead to a variety of postoperative problems.
• Tea and coffee should also be avoided before going to bed since they might keep you awake and contribute to you not being able to sleep adequately.

• Continue with modest workouts or low-impact exercises: 

It is normally advised that you relax yourself and avoid strenuous workouts. However, the doctor often recommends low-impact workouts such as walking and certain stretches to help you stay active and maintain circulation in your body. Being physically exhausted might help you sleep better.

Moving more and doing workouts like walking might support a healthier sleeping routine.

Another thing to remember about workouts is to not overdo it, to listen to your doctor and to gradually increase the intensity of your activities so that you do not put a strain on your abdomen.

• Other ways of promoting a decent sleep routine after gallbladder surgery:

• Create a pleasant environment around you by using aromatic oils to help you relax and create an ambient setting.
• Use dark curtains to shut off any unnecessary light. Light can disrupt the normal circadian rhythm and hamper the normal sleep schedule.
• Always sleep in a clean bed with linens.
• Listen to peaceful music to help you sleep.
• Take a shower before going to bed.
• Avoid using electronic gadgets right before going to bed.
• Read a relaxing book.

When should you consult a doctor if you have trouble sleeping?

Having trouble in the first few weeks after the surgery is fairly usual and anticipated. However, if you suffer frequent restless nights, you should be aware of some symptoms that should not be ignored. Insomnia and chronic sleeping issues following the surgery may suggest the presence of certain underlying diseases. Sleep is critical for general health. So, if you are having trouble sleeping for more than two or three weeks following surgery, you should consult your doctor.

The following are a few signs to watch out for and visit your doctor if:

• You have a persistent fever higher than your normal body temperature which interferes with your sleep and does not go away despite medication.
• Your incisions have resulted in the discharge of pus. This has a green or yellow colour to it.
• Your abdominal incisions smell bad or cause you discomfort which is a sign that the wound has gotten infected. Excessive bloating may also signal an infection.
• You experience constant nausea, vomiting and dizziness. These are not typical after a week of surgery and if you experience any other similar symptoms for a prolonged time, you should notify and discuss with your doctor immediately.

Why consult Dr Vikas Singhal for your gallbladder surgery?

Dr Vikas Singhal, bariatric surgeon is also a well-known gallbladder removal surgeon in Delhi. Consultation with Dr Vikas Singhal is recommended not just to ensure a successful and comfortable procedure, but also to ensure a premium gallbladder surgery aftercare.

He strongly believes that surgery does not end with the operation and takes a comprehensive and holistic approach to treatment. He encourages patients to come in for monthly check-ups and follow-ups to keep a close watch on their recovery.

He gives a personalised aftercare plan as well as insights and advice on how to sleep better after gallbladder surgery.

Dr Vikas offers the most affordable gallbladder surgery in Gurgaon. Dr Vikas Singhal offers the best gallbladder surgery in Gurgaon at a low cost and with a high success rate.