HEALTH: How to Help Patients after a Brain Surgery

HEALTH: How to Help Patients after a Brain Surgery 

By Jorge Jefferds January 12, 2015 

Going home after being discharged from a brain surgery can be both welcome, and frightening. For patients, who need help to understand the post-surgical instructions, could be even somewhat stressful. But some experiences are similar for all the cases, and the following general information will assist you make a smooth transition from hospital to home.

Activity

Most people are likely to feel some tiredness for up to six weeks after surgery. This is a normal part of healing, and is to be expected. You should become a little stronger every day. Try to do some regular exercise to help the circulation in your legs, reducing the risk of blood clots. Increase your level of activity slowly. If you feel light headed or tired after activity, rest, and diminish the amount of activity you are doing. Do not drive until you speak with your doctor. In fact, you should be able to inform the DMV of your surgery. You may resume your sexual activity when you feel ready. Avoid any activity that causes you to hold your breath and push, for example lifting and moving heavy objects. Remember to rest when you feel tired. Listen to your body, and avoid over exertion. Think about whether family or friends could help with childcare, housework, shopping, and preparing meals.

Side Effects

Surgery to the brain for any reason can cause certain symptoms, and side effects. While some are common, some might be rare. The typical symptoms in the first weeks following the procedure include headaches, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and poor balance.

Signs to Look Out for

The following symptoms need to be investigated urgently by your doctor:

·         Feeling more unwell

·         Increasing drowsiness

·         Difficulty walking/weakness in legs, arm or face

·         Confusion or memory problems

·         Double vision or blurred vision

·         Stiff neck or fever

·         Severe sensitivity to light

·         Severe headache

·         Any signs of fits or seizures such as twitching or jerking movements or numbness and tingling in a part or many parts of your body.

·         Persistent vomiting or feeling sick after having a number of days of feeling well.

·         Surgical wounds showing signs of redness, swelling, any fluid leak or it feels hot to touch.

·         Productive cough with yellow or green sputum.

·         Pain, swelling or redness in your calf or thigh.

Other Hints

If someone else offers help, take it. Rest means rest. Don’t worry if you don’t sleep. Give your body enough time to recover from the trauma it has been through. Pay attention to your body, and say NO to activity if you don’t feel up to. Get someone to do your talking for you if you are not feeling up to it. Try and get lots of fresh air, and drink plenty of water. Be in bed by 8PM for the first couple of weeks. It doesn’t matter if you don’t sleep. Try to manage your headaches the best possible way. Use ice packs, get fresh air, and learn from your own experience. An activity may be responsible for this symptom rather than the surgery. Sit down as much as possible, when doing jobs. Don’t be shy about talking of your experience. You’ll be surprised about how many people know someone, who faced a similar situation.