One of the most significant challenges patients face after hemorrhoid surgery is getting a good night's sleep. Proper rest is essential to healing, and lack of quality sleep can slow recovery.
It may be best for you to sleep on your stomach. Lying on your stomach will minimize discomfort, and place a pillow under your hips to prevent rolling over. Pillows around your body will help you stay in the correct position.
If you have recently undergone hemorrhoid surgery and are struggling to get a good night's rest, read on to discover some tips and tricks on getting a good night's rest.
How to Sleep After Hemorrhoid Surgery: 3 Positions
It is expected to experience discomfort and difficulty sleeping after the surgery, especially during the first few days. This is why knowing how to sleep correctly and avoiding positions that affect healing is essential.
Sleeping
After hemorrhoid surgery, choosing the correct position is critical to getting a restful night's sleep and relieving discomfort. Here are some of the best sleeping positions to consider:
- Belly sleeping: Sleeping on your belly is not recommended after hemorrhoid surgery, as it can strain your abdomen and cause discomfort. However, if you find it hard to sleep on your side or back, you can try using a donut-shaped pillow to take pressure off your rectum and anus.
- Side sleeping: Sleeping on your side is best after hemorrhoid surgery. It reduces pressure and promotes healing in your rectal area. To sleep on your side:
- Lie on your left side, as it is less likely to put pressure on the liver and gallbladder on your right side.
- Hips will be aligned if you place a pillow between your legs and reduce pressure on your pelvis.
- Back sleeping: If you prefer to sleep on your back, try the following:
- Place a pillow under your knees to elevate them and relieve rectal pressure.
- Place a small pillow or rolled-up towel under the lower back to keep it naturally curved.
Pillows in Supporting
Pillows can significantly change sleeping after hemorrhoid surgery. They can support your body, reduce pressure on your rectal area, and ease discomfort. Here's how:
- Donut-shaped pillow: A donut-shaped pillow is an excellent option for reducing pressure on your rectum and anus. It has a hole in the center that takes pressure off your surgical site and promotes healing.
- Wedge pillow: A wedge pillow can elevate your legs or upper body to decrease pressure on your back. It can also help with acid reflux, snoring, and sleep apnea.
- Body pillow: A body pillow can support your entire body and keep you comfortable. Depending on your preference, you can place it between your legs, under your knees, or around your back.
Sitting and Lying
After hemorrhoid surgery, it is vital to avoid putting pressure on the surgical site, as this could cause pain and bleeding and slow down the healing process. Sitting or lying down can influence the anus and rectus and ultimately influence your recovery. Here's how:
- Sitting: Sitting for extended periods puts pressure on your buttocks and tailbone, which can irritate the surgical site. It's best to avoid sitting for more than 20-30 minutes at a time. If you need to sit, try using a padded cushion or a pillow in the shape of a donut to relieve the pressure on your rectum.
- Lying down: Lying down on your back or belly can pressure your surgical site and cause discomfort. Sleeping on your side is the best position, as it reduces stress on your rectal area and promotes healing.
5 Ways to Manage Pain While Sleeping After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Hemorrhoid surgery can cause discomfort and pain, making it difficult to get a good night's sleep. You can employ several strategies to manage pain and discomfort, decrease swelling and inflammation, and promote restful sleep.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications can help to ease pain and promote comfort during recovery. Some commonly used over-the-counter pain medications include:
- Paracetamol: This medication is widely known as Paracetamol for treating pain after hemorrhoid surgery.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen and aspirin can help reduce inflammation and pain when used in recommended doses.
Reduce Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation can add to post-surgery discomfort, so it is essential to employ techniques to manage them. Here are some helpful strategies:
- Apply Ice: Icing the surgical site for 20 minutes can help reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Elevate the Affected Area: Elevating the affected area, such as propping up your legs with a pillow, can help promote blood flow and reduce swelling.
- Increase Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help your body eliminate excess fluids, which can contribute to swelling.
Doctor's Instructions
If over-the-counter pain medications alone do not provide adequate pain relief, your doctor may prescribe stronger ones. Feel free to ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding pain management.
Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding pain management and recovery. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully to promote healing and reduce post-surgery discomfort.
Hemorrhoid Surgery & Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene is crucial to promote speedy recovery. Good sleep hygiene aims to help individuals have a peaceful and restful night's sleep. It includes creating a relaxing sleep environment and avoiding substances that disrupt sleep, such as alcohol and caffeine.
Environment
A calming sleep environment can promote better sleep quality and aid post-operative recovery. Here are some tips on creating a relaxing sleep environment:
- Keep the room dark, quiet, and calm.
- Ensure that the mattress and pillows are comfortable and supportive.
- Use comfortable bedding and choose soft, breathable fabrics that do not cause skin irritation.
- Decorate the room with calming colors and reduce clutter.
Effects of Alcohol & Other Substances
Consuming substances that disrupt sleep can interfere with the healing process after hemorrhoid surgery. Here are some effects of alcohol, caffeine, and other substances on sleep:
- Alcohol: Although alcohol can make individuals feel drowsy, it disrupts the body's natural sleep cycle, leading to frequent awakenings and reduced sleep quality.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant that interferes with sleep. Stay away from caffeine-containing drinks and foods such as coffee, tea, and chocolate before bedtime.
- Nicotine: Just like caffeine, nicotine disturbs sleep. A smoker's blood oxygen level can be reduced, causing discomfort and pain after hemorrhoid surgery.
- Painkillers: Painkillers can help manage post-operative pain, but they can interfere with sleep as well. Taking them as prescribed and avoiding continuous use of medications can cause dependence and addiction.
Conclusion
Sleeping after hemorrhoid surgery is crucial to enhance the healing process as it gives the body enough rest to recover. Sleep after hemorrhoid surgery can be more pleasing by prioritizing pain control, sleep position, comfortable bedding, diet, hydration, and recommended sleeping times. Keeping track of your symptoms and seeking medical attention when necessary is essential.
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