When you leave the hospital, the medical team at Atlantic Medical Group Colorectal Surgery at Morristown will provide you with specific instructions related to your surgery. You may be given a special diet to follow for a short time. While you are recovering at home, we recommend the following tips to a healthy, fast, safe recovery.
Home Care
- Avoid strenuous activity for one to two days after your procedure
- Take sitz baths (sit for 10 minutes in about three inches of warm water) at least three times a day and after each bowel movement
- Don’t worry if you have some bleeding, discharge, or itching during your recovery. This is normal.
- Avoid constipation. Use a laxative or stool softeners, such as Colace®, 100mg by mouth twice daily
- Drink one tablespoon of mineral oil at bedtime
- Eat more high-fiber foods
- Drink six to eight glasses of water a day, unless directed otherwise
- Spend less time sitting on the toilet
- Avoid straining with bowel movements. Straining increases pressure and irritation, which can lead to pain and swelling
- Sexual activity as tolerated. If it starts to hurt – stop
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:
- A fever above 100.5°F
- A large amount of drainage or bleeding
- Trouble urinating
- No bowel movements for more than 48 hours
Read our discharge instructions related to specific surgical procedures: