Work after surgery

[stickman7755]

work after surgery

I am having open surgery on December 7th to cut out a foot of my terminal illieum and part of my colon. I was wondering how long it took before you could go back to work? My job is one where I'm standing and walking around the whole time, which probably makes a difference. Thanks.

Shawn

 

[Crohn's 35]

Hey Shawn, most people give it 6 weeks, depending on the surgery and now your recovery goes. Slowly pace yourself, because most people go too fast and end up with problems. I didnt work but I had a 4 year old at that time. Walk as soon as you can, no lifting and with the eating, smoothies and Ensure in the beginning to give the bowels a chance to heal. Keep positive and behave and you should be ok to go within 6 weeks. This is only a guideline.

 

[stickman7755]

Pen,
Thanks for the advice, it seems like 6 weeks is the average time for recovery. It sucks cause my job is busiest around Christmas time so I feel bad for taking so much time off right around the busiest time of the year.

 

[Kacey]

I am going back on Monday, which will bring me to just about 5 weeks. I did not have an open procedure, but I lost a significant amount of weight while in the hospital (with an obstruction) waiting for surgery so I think that really did me in! I'd say 6 weeks for sure, and if it's a planned surgery, you'll be going in healthy which will make a BIG difference! Good luck!!

 

[Kacey]

DO NOT feel bad for taking time off! I felt bad too but this kind of stuff is far more important then work. I hope they're understanding of that! Don't rush it just b/c you feel bad! I think once you've had the surgery you might focus more on recovering, and work will be furthest from your mind (at least that's how it was for me). As soon as I started to feel better, that's when I started calling co-workers and getting the 'work gossip' LOL!