Life, After Acid Reflux
Quick Acid Reflux Refresher
Acid reflux, also known as GERD, is a medical condition that occurs when the stomach’s acidic contents are pumped back into the esophagus leading to discomfort and pain. In most cases, reflux results from weakening of the sphincter muscle, lying between the esophagus and stomach.
Acid reflux surgery is recommended for those who have used all the nonsurgical treatments without success, including changes in diet and medicines. The surgery is mildly invasive and its success rate can go up to 80%.
Once the surgery is completed, the patient will be discharged from the hospital the next day. The patient is advised to stay at home away from work for a couple of days. After one week, the patient may feel strong enough to resume his/her normal activities as long as he/she adopts the right recovery measures.
Post-Acid Reflux Surgery Recovery
Post-Operation Diet
Once the patient recovers from the surgery, their post-surgical diet becomes the most crucial part of their recovery. After the surgery, the diet will slowly be changed from liquid to normal soft meals over the following weeks. Following this diet strictly hinders esophagus and stomach distention and aids in healing the stomach.
For a day or two of post-surgery procedure, acid reflux experts advise patients to take a clear liquid diet consisting of broths, juice, gelatin and decaffeinated tea. For the following three to four days, a liquid diet is advised; this could include plain yogurt, ice creams, strained soups and milk. If the recovery process is going on well, one may start to add soft foods into their diet, including cheeses, pancakes, soft breads, finely diced or ground meat. The patient can resume normal diet after about 8 weeks.
During recovery, the patient should keep off chewy breads, tough meat cuts, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, raw vegetables, fatty foods, or seeds, since they may be hard on their stomach and hard to digest. Moreover, keep off carbonated beverages or foods that produce gas as they fill the stomach with air, thereby causing pressure on fundoplication. Eating many smaller meals promotes healing and prevents distention.
Physical Activity During Recovery
One may not be in a position to perform difficult activities after surgery because it may injure the incisions and even extend the recovery period. But a patient must be physically active to keep the body moving and also make them feel healthier during recovery. They may begin to walk short distances to prevent pneumonia and blood clot incidences.
During the initial two weeks after surgery, one may begin to do simple aerobic activities such as jogging to elevate the levels of energy, burn fat and promote flexibility. One should however be careful with healing incisions. Several strenuous exercises such as lifting weights, swimming and cycling should be done only when one is physically and mentally well. The doctor may take a thorough examination before one is allowed to begin daily exercises.
The body will recover and heal well when one is asleep, hence ensure you get adequate rest during the day and a good sleep all night long. Moreover, stick to a healthy diet after surgery. Well-balanced wholesome diets offer the body the necessary nutrients it needs to restore itself. Strictly follow the directions of the surgeon to make the recovery process comfortable and relaxing. To further discuss life post-surgery, contact the North Texas acid reflux experts here at Ihde Surgical Group today.