After surgery, you can definitely expect some minor bleeding from the surgical incision made by your doctor. But the problem arises when the bleeding is too much or excessive. That is known as post-operative bleeding. During the surgical procedure, there will definitely be injury or trauma to blood vessels, causing some bleeding after surgery. The pathologic causes of Post-operative Bleeding include if you are on medicines like aspirin or anticoagulants (blood thinners), if you are hypertensive, if the surgery was traumatic or if there is excessive pressure or tension at the surgical site.
What are the signs and symptoms of bleeding after surgery that you need to watch out for ?
- Blood that soaks through the dressing covering the surgical site.
- A feeling of anxiety or confusion.
- A faster heart rate than usual for you.
- A faster rate of breathing, or a shortness of breath.
- Urinating less or not at all.
What is to be done if you have post-operative bleeding ?
You need to let your doctor examine you to determine the cause of the bleeding. This can be done by direct visual examination or by imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound. To stem the bleeding, your doctor probably has put an ideal amount of pressure on the area and then sewn up or cauterized (sealed) the incision. Your doctor also may have given you medicines (styptics) to stop the bleeding. Stringent follow-up care is key for wound healing. Be sure to change dressings as recommended, go to all appointments, and visit your doctor or nurse call in case of ensuing problems.
How do you take care of your wound ?
If you have a surgical tape on the incision, follow your doctor’s instructions for when to remove the tape. It is very important to keep the area clean and dry at all times. The dressing or bandage helps your wound incision heal quickly and protects it. Your doctor will give you post-operative instructions on how to take care of the dressing and wound. Don’t use iodine, hydrogen peroxide or alcohol directly on the wound after cleaning, as this can slow healing. You need to cover the wounded area with a gauze bandage if it weeps or if it rubs against clothing. It is recommended to change the bandage everyday.
How can you prevent post-operative bleeding ?
Each of us can do our part to prevent post-operative bleeding. Be sure to tell your doctor your prescribed medicines and their correct dosage as well as other medical information about yourself. Your medical details should necessarily include names of all the prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking, any dietary supplements , and herbal preparations you are taking each. This definitely helps to avoid any possible, preventable post-operative bleeding.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
