I am 10 days post lap chole gallbladder removal. I'm a 34 year old woman. I am on the Depo shot for birth control (the last one I got was July 9th - my next one is due in October), therefore, I never get a period. However, 5 days post surgery, I got my period and I still have it. Is this normal? I thought maybe it started because I was straining so hard to have a bowel movement. My last pap test was at the end of April and it was normal. Now, I'm worried something may be really wrong. Is this common - my situation?
I'd add that because much is changing in the first weeks after surgery, it's way to early to worry about such things as SOD. If you are still taking pain med, that can certainly cause nausea. There are several medication choices that ought to help. If it persists for more than another couple of weeks, or is getting worse, or if other symptoms add in, then investigation ought to start.
I would agree with the surgeon's assessment that it may take a bit of time for your body to adjust post-op. If the nausea continues, then yes, further evaluation can be considered. This would include the aforementioned diseases (although they are relatively uncommon). Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction can be evaluated with an ERCP with manometry, and gastroparesis can be evaluated with a gastric emptying scan.
A more reasonable test would be a simple upper GI series first, which can evaluate for more common causes like GERD, inflammation of the upper digestive tract, or an ulcer. If negative, then you can proceed to some of the more specialized tests.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b