No matter the reason for your surgery, it can be extremely taxing physically and emotionally. There are a few steps you should follow to ensure you recover properly and heal as quickly as possible.

 

1. Eat properly.

 

After a surgery, your body needs proper nutrition more than ever. However, you should probably stick to things that are light in texture, like rice or potatoes. Soft foods are more easily digested and less likely to make you nauseas, a threat after surgery.

 

2. Take medicines exactly according to schedule.

 

Medications are meant to be taken at specific times. Even if you don’t feel bad, that does not mean there isn’t infection brewing. By taking antibiotics on time every day following a surgery, you can prevent infections from forming. The last doses are the most important to take; failure to take the full course of antibiotics contributes to antibiotic resistance, something which can pose a major threat for health in the future.

3. Use the bathroom routinely.

 

Many post-surgery medications can cause constipation. If you’ve had surgery on your abdominal area, constipation can cause severe pain and even run the risk of tearing open stitches. You may need to avoid certain types of foods or take stool softeners in order to keep your bowel movements routine.

 

4. Avoid lifting heavy weights.

 

Light exercise can be helpful for recovery after surgery. However, you should avoid lifting heavy weights in the first three months following a surgery. Allow your body time to heal completely before you resume any weight training exercises. Failure to abide by this rule can result in tearing of the stitches and other major injuries.

 

5. Stay hydrated.

 

Even if you don’t normally abide by the standard rules for hydration, it’s important to drink between six and eight cups of water in the weeks following your surgery. Staying properly hydrated will allow your body to heal more quickly, and will keep you feeling better. The increased water intake will also help the digestion and absorption of the medication.

 

Following these five guidelines post-surgery can help you recover quickly and get back on your feet. After surgery, however, it’s important to practice proper health habits to try and prevent future surgeries. Despite modern medical care, the toll that surgery takes on the body is high.