Some people are afraid of undergoing surgeries because they feel it might take them long to get back to normal activities. It is true that you may need some time to recover, but you should not delay your surgery. Here are some tips that might help you recover faster:

Eat well

You may not feel like eating post-surgery because of the pain, discomfort, and the feeling of fullness due to medicines, but please eat. Small frequent meals will provide you much-needed energy and nourishment.

Every surgery is different and so your doctor or nutritionist might ask you to follow certain diet post-surgery. You might need to be on a soft or liquid diet for a few days. Carbohydrates in the form of Dalia, Khichri provide instant energy to the body. Proteins are the building blocks of cell and helps in repair and regeneration of the tissue involved in the surgery. So, proteins are a must after the surgery. Food items such as milk, eggs, lean meat, fish are a good source of protein. You can consult your doctor for choosing the best protein options for you.

Well, a balanced diet consisting of all the macro and micro elements is advised. But most important is that you keep eating at short intervals so that your digestive system is at ease and you get required nourishment.

Walk

Unless your doctor has advised you otherwise, you should try and move around as soon as you can post your surgery. Movement maintains blood circulation in the body which prevents unnecessary clotting of the blood at the injured site and helps in faster healing of the wounds. But at the same time, don’t exert yourself. Do as much as your body allows. ‘Go slow’ is the mantra.

Drink plenty of fluids

You need to keep replenishing your body with plenty of low-calorie, non-carbonated fluids. This keeps the cells of the body hydrated and fastens the recovery process. Plain water is always the best, but you may infuse your water with a few slices of cucumber, orange, or any fruit or Indian spice like cardamoms if you like. Flavored water are a good source of micro-nutrients and could be extremely refreshing during the summers. Fruits such as watermelons, musk melons, strawberries, oranges, grapes are also a good source of fluids. In addition they give you a lot of fiber too.

Besides, avoid a lot of caffeine or tea as they are diuretics and drains a lot of water out of the body.

Take adequate rest

Yes, walking and movements are important but most important is to take adequate rest. Sleep is a medicine in itself as it helps the body repair itself. If you are finding it difficult to fall asleep because of pain and discomfort, try meditation, listen to good sleep music, switch of the lights and relax. It can help you sleep better.

Besides, you can read a good book, listen to your favorite music, chat with your loves ones to keep you in a happy, relaxed mood.

Don’t miss your medicines

There is noting that can replace medicines. Post-surgery, apart from medicines to treat your condition, doctors generally also advise a few anti-inflammatory and pain-killers. These medicines are important as these help control the inflammation and pain that may prevent you from doing your day-to-day activities. Follow your doctor’s prescription and don’t miss any medicine.

If you are advised for dressings, you should go for them at the time suggested by the doctor.

Stay Cautious

If you feel any unusual pain, discomfort or symptom please contact your doctor immediately. The wound site should be dry, any discoloration or accumulation of fluid could mean infection. Inform your doctor.

Stay Relaxed

Don’t rush to return to your normal activities as it might delay the recovery. Don’t lift any weights or indulge into any strenuous activity post-surgery till you fully recover. Mental stress regarding your job or financials can hamper your recovery. So, stay relaxed.

If you have undergone a surgery recently, consult or have a second opinon from surgery specialist doctor near you